The Genomics Coalition envisions a future where every individual in Australia has equal opportunity to benefit from genomic healthcare, regardless of their disease, socio-economic status, or geographic location. We are bringing together patients, advocates, experts, and organisations with a coordinated advocacy agenda for change.

We strive to create a healthcare landscape that leverages the power of genomics to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases, ultimately improving the health outcomes of all Australians.

Our Mission

We are a community and people-led movement.

We bring together patients, advocates, experts, and organisations to advocate for equitable, community-led healthcare that integrates genomics into everyday medical practice.

Our goal is to reshape the healthcare landscape and make personalised, preventive care accessible to all.

Equity of access

Equity of access in genomics is crucial to address disparities and promote inclusivity in healthcare. Targeted efforts are needed to bridge the gaps faced by Indigenous Australians in genomics. Ensuring accessibility of genomic tests for patients in remote areas is key to achieving equitable access to the benefits of genomic medicine.

Why We Exist: The Power of Genomics

Genomics has the potential to transform healthcare as we know it – enabling earlier diagnoses, personalised treatments, and better health outcomes. But currently, not everyone in Australia benefits equally. Access to genomic healthcare can be limited by geography, economic status, and disease awareness. The Genomics Coalition was formed to close these gaps, ensuring that everyone, no matter their background or where they live, has equal access to this revolutionary healthcare.

We believe that with the right policies, partnerships, and advocacy, genomics can be a tool for equity, not exclusion.

Genetics vs Genomics

Genomics

• Genomics is the study of the entirety of our genome – all of our DNA

• Study of the activity and interaction of genes in the body, including their role in certain diseases.

• Genomics looks in more detail at our DNA and how any changes are linked to a specific disorder

• Once you have cancer, the activity and interaction of certain genes in your tumour tissue influences the behaviour of your tumour, including how likely it is to grow and spread

Genetics

• Genetics is the study of genes passed to us by our parents/ancestors

• Study of how inherited traits, such as hair or eye colour, are passed from one generation to the next through genes

• Genetics involves the study of how genes work and what each gene is made up of (sequences of DNA).

• Your risk for certain cancers can be inherited or passed through your genes

Benefits of integrating genomic technologies into clinical care

Our Short Term Policy Recommendations

To achieve equitable access to genomic healthcare, The Genomics Coalition advocates for the following policy changes:

Ban on Discrimination

Implement a full ban on genomic discrimination in risk-rated insurance to provide consumer certainty and confidence to participate in genomics initiatives and precision medicine.

Preventive Adult DNA Screening

Fund an implementation trial of adult DNA screening for high-risk medically actionable conditions to prepare the health system for preventive DNA screening at the population level, accessed without fear of insurance implications.

Reimbursed Genetic Counselling

Ensure adequate access to genetic counsellors via the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) and Australia’s public hospital network to support the increased number of at-risk individuals identified and facilitate adequate risk management, disease prevention, and access to precision medicines.

Respond to the HTA Review

Include genomics and genetic technologies in the Health Technology Assessment Policy and Methods Review (HTA) review.

Read our report for more detail on medium and long term goals.

Our Community

“Genetic testing has given me a choice and the opportunity to take control of my health and future.”

— Kara

“Had the test arrived sooner, it could have been the key to a different path for my mum—a path where she fought with the strength of knowledge and the promise of hope.”

— In memory of my mum, Margaret

“Having survived cancer twice, I’ve seen firsthand how genomics transforms cancer care. It enables a deeper understanding of the disease, leading to more effective, personalised treatments that can significantly improve patient outcomes.

– Hugo Toovey, Founder, 25 Stay Alive

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We strive to create a healthcare landscape that leverages the power of genomics to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases, ultimately improving the health outcomes of all Australians.

Our Mission

Equity of access

Why We Exist: The Power of Genomics

Genetics vs Genomics

Genomics

Genetics

Benefits of integrating genomic technologies into clinical care

Our Short Term Policy Recommendations

Ban on Discrimination

Preventive Adult DNA Screening

Reimbursed Genetic Counselling

Respond to the HTA Review

Our Community

How can I get involved with The Genomics Coalition?

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