Genetic testing

We improve the health outcomes of people with genetically linked cancers. We do this by delivering a comprehensive familial cancer service across the Parkville precinct

We work with The Royal Melbourne Hospital to deliver an integrated genetic testing service known as the Parkville Familial Cancer Centre. The Parkville Familial Cancer Centre is a comprehensive cancer genetics centre. We offer:  

  • Cancer risk assessment 
  • Genetic counselling 
  • Genetic testing 
  • Medical advice and management 
  • Psychological support for individuals and their family members who have concerns about their personal and/or family history of cancer 

You may contact the centre yourself or seek a referral if you have either: 

  • A strong family history of cancer
  • Concerns about genetic risk

A familial cancer consultation will involve: 

  • Collecting correct data on your family history 
  • Providing you with information about genetics and inheritance 
  • Explaining the genetic testing process 
  • Calculation of your cancer risk based on your family history and/or genetic test results 
  • Us explaining your risks to you 
  • Exploring any psychosocial issues 
  • Recommending strategies for cancer screening, early detection and/or prevention 
  • Providing you with a management plan for your cancer risk

We will not charge you anything. There are no out-of-pocket costs for patients attending the Parkville Familial Cancer Centre. 

We supply services from: 

You’ll also be able to take part in:  

Genetic testing referral information

To book an appointment with us, you will need to:

  1. Get a medical referral
  2. Contact the Familial Cancer Centre by phone 
  3. Complete a family history questionnaire and an individual medical history form. We will provide you with these 
  4. Return the questionnaire and history forms
  5. Come along to your first appointment (conducted via telehealth or face to face)

Medicare funded genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer genes 

The Australian Federal government has approved a Medicare rebate item number for:

  • BRCA related genetic testing for women with breast or ovarian cancer 
  • The testing of a mutation earlier found in a family

You can download often asked questions for Patients, GPs (General Practitioners) and Specialists.

Location

Familial Cancer Centre
Level 1, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre 
305 Grattan Street 
Melbourne VIC 3000 

Contact 

Familial Cancer Centre 

Related pages

Related links 

Parkville Familial Cancer Centre