Hundreds of extra sunshades will be installed in public areas, sports clubs, school playgrounds and outdoor areas as part of a state government plan to protect Victorians from UV rays.
Health minister Mary-Anne Thomas today announced that 247 community organisations and 66 schools across Victoria will be able to access the the latest round of the $2.5 million Shade Grants Program.
“These grants will help Victorians, especially school students, to enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle while having the necessary shade to protect them from the sun,” Ms Thomas said.
“Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in Australia – that’s why this program is so important, to ensure Victorians are protected from the harmful UV rays that could contribute to skin cancer later in life.”
The grants will help schools and community groups build new shade structures, purchase portable shade, create natural shade by planting trees or repair their existing shade structures.
Funding is also provided to purchase items to protect us from the sun, including hats and sunscreen.
When used alongside other sun-protection measures such as sunscreen and appropriate clothing, shade structures can reduce overall exposure to UV radiation by up to 75 per cent.
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with two in three people diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.
In 2020, melanoma was the fifth-most-common cancer in Victoria, with 2,582 new cases and 271 deaths.
