Bowel cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with the majority of cases presenting in Australians over 50. But the rate of bowel cancers in those under 50 is increasing year on year; 10.7 per cent of bowel cancer diagnoses are in Australians under 50. Over the past two decades, rates for those aged 20 to 39 have doubled. Often, cancer, especially bowel cancer, is not front of mind when a younger person visits a doctor with symptoms. The symptoms can be non-specific and are commonly associated with other diseases, and sometimes they can be embarrassing for people to admit. But they shouldn't be embarrassed, because early detection is incredibly important, and we should do what we can to dispel the stigma and encourage those who are worried to reach out to their GP as soon as possible.

With the indulgence of the House, this week, my goddaughter's—Kirstyn Taylor—fight with bowel cancer made a huge milestone. She no longer has to see her oncologist. Thanks to her wonderful team of doctors and care teams, her family and I can live with her for years to come.

Honourable members: Hear, hear!

Link to Hansard: Full Speech