‘Sun safe habits last a lifetime’: National Skin Cancer Action Week theme unveiled as Australia celebrates 45 years of Slip! Slop! Slap! and Sid Seagull

“We know that exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer, and research has found that 50% of lifetime UV exposure happens before age 20, showing that sun protection habits established today can help lower your risk of skin cancer tomorrow. Studies also tell us that children are 12 times more likely to use sunscreen and three times more likely to wear a hat when they see their parents do it first, further emphasising that the benefits of sun-safe habits can last a lifetime, especially when introduced early.

“This National Skin Cancer Action Week, we're encouraging Australians to carry sun-safe habits forward and pass them on to a new generation.”

The 2026 theme focuses on the role families play in establishing sun protection habits, encouraging parents and carers to lead by example and make sun safety a consistent part of everyday life.

Australasian College of Dermatologists President Dr Adrian Lim said the enduring success of the Slip! Slop! Slap! message demonstrated the value of simple, memorable health communication. “The Australasian College of Dermatologists is proud to celebrate 45 years of the iconic Slip, Slop, Slap campaign with Cancer Council Australia,” Dr Lim said.

“These, now further evolved to five sun protection steps, including Seek and Slide, continue to be the best defence against Australia's most common cancer.”

National Skin Cancer Action Week reminds Australians to check the UV Index and use all five forms of sun protection whenever the UV level reaches three or above: Slip on protective clothing, Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses.

Throughout November and National Skin Cancer Action Week, Australians will have the opportunity to win limited-edition Little Sid Seagull 10-cm plushies through Cancer Council Australia giveaways.

Chair of Cancer Council's National Skin Cancer Committee, Sally Blane, added: “In 1981, Slip! Slop! Slap! gave Australians a simple and memorable introduction to sun protection. Our upcoming National Skin Cancer Action Week is an opportunity to renew that message, celebrate its enduring recognition with the introduction of Little Sid Seagull, and help families turn sun protection into habits that last a lifetime.

“We encourage Australians to check their local UV levels on the SunSmart Global UV app and use all five forms of sun protection when the UV is three or above. Remember to Slip on sun-protective clothing, Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, Slap on a broad brimmed hat, Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses.”