The vaccine against cancer of the cervix is now free after the federal government recently made funding available. Females aged 12-26 can receive the vaccine.

This vaccine prevents about 70% of cancers of the cervix and is given as a course of 3 injections over 6 months. 

There are two programs now operating which depend on the age of the patient:

School-based program

* 12 and 13 year old girls
* 13 to 18 year old girls will be vaccinated in a free catch-up program over the next two years only
This program started in April 2007. 

General practitioner program

18-26 year old women can be immunised by their GP from July 2007. There is no charge for the vaccine but there may be a fee for the GP visit.

The vaccine is not yet approved for women over the age of 26 years. 

Importantly, after vaccination, sexually active women still need 2-yearly Pap smears.

For more information speak to your GP, ring the Immunise Australia National Hotline on 1800 671 811 or go to www.health.gov.au/cervicalcancer.