Our guest, Sue McShane, is a valued member of The Aging Project Community whose personal journey shows the power of self-advocacy, self-awareness, and taking small, consistent steps toward better health.

At 60, Sue is feeling stronger, healthier, and more empowered than ever, but it wasn’t always that way. After years of struggling with mental health, trauma, and chronic health concerns, she discovered genetic testing, glucose monitoring, and strength training, which have helped her optimise her health and transition off antidepressants after 27 years.

Sue shares how understanding her DNA has been the missing piece in her health puzzle, proving that health isn’t just about how you feel—it’s about knowing what’s happening beneath the surface.

Sue took inspiration from The Aging Project and began exploring:
✔ Fitgenes testing – Helped her understand her genetic predispositions and vitamin needs.
✔ Glucose monitoring (Vively) – Showed how her body responded to different foods.
✔ Strength training – Lifting heavy weights helped her build muscle and improve metabolism.
✔ Nutritional focus – Adjusting B12 and B6 levels played a key role in her transition off antidepressants.

Sue’s story is proof that it’s never too late to take charge of your health. Healing isn’t a one-time fix—it’s an ongoing journey, and small, intentional steps make all the difference.

Understanding your DNA is a game-changer. It gives you the power to personalise your health, prevent disease, and make smarter choices for longevity.

🔬 Join our FREE DNA Webinar – Discover how genetic testing can unlock better health.
👉 Sign Up Here

📲 Connect with Sue:
Instagram | Website | YouTube

🧘 Interested in Trauma-Informed Yoga?
Check out Frontline Yoga for programs designed for first responders.

"Your health is never finished. It’s a journey that unfolds step by step. And it’s never too late to take that first step toward healing." – Sue McShane

🎧 Thanks for tuning in! Stay well, friends, and we’ll see you next week.
– Shelley Craft & The Aging Project Team

Urinary incontinence is one of the most common yet least talked about issues affecting women’s health. More than 1 in 3 women will experience an overactive bladder in their lifetime, and by the age of 70, that number jumps significantly.

But here’s the real question—does aging have to mean bladder issues? Or have we been misled into believing this is just “part of getting older”?

In this episode, Shelley Craft sits down with Dr. Kelly Casperson to debunk the myths, break down the science, and—most importantly—explore real, effective solutions to improve bladder health at any age.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🔹 The real impact of incontinence on mental health, mobility, and quality of life

🔹 The science behind stress vs. urge incontinence—what’s actually happening in your body?

🔹 How pelvic floor health and estrogen play a crucial role in bladder control

🔹 The surprising link between gut health and incontinence

🔹 Natural solutions that actually work—like how a tiny amount of cranberry powder outperformed medication!

🔹 The right way to do Kegels (hint: most women are doing them wrong)

🔹 When medical treatments or surgery might be necessary—and what to try first Key Takeaways & Action Steps:

✅ Try the ‘marble technique’ for strengthening your pelvic floor

✅ Reduce caffeine and consider bladder training

✅ Learn why weight management can significantly improve symptoms

✅ If symptoms persist, consult a pelvic health specialist

This is a conversation EVERY woman needs to hear. Don’t let embarrassment keep you from taking action—there are real, proven ways to improve your bladder health and quality of life. 🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share this episode with the women in your life!

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Kelly Casperson:

https://kellycaspersonmd.com

https://www.instagram.com/kellycaspersonmd

Join our FREE DNA Webinar 

https://theagingproject.com/fitgenes-webinar/

In this special episode, we sit down with the extraordinary Elizabeth Gilbert—bestselling author of Eat Pray Love and Big Magic—to explore the intersection of spiritual health, creativity, and aging well. With her trademark wisdom and warmth, Elizabeth shares insights on embracing your own spiritual journey, navigating fear, and reigniting creativity as we age. Together, we unpack the profound connection between spiritual well-being and vibrant aging, and how to uncover the treasures hidden within us.

Elizabeth reminds us of the power of curiosity, the importance of spiritual health, and the courage it takes to live authentically. From practical tips on manifestation to reflections on the lessons of suffering, this conversation is a heartfelt invitation to create your own Big Magic at any stage of life.

Key Topics Covered:

Takeaways from the Episode:

Resources and Links:

Connect with Elizabeth Gilbert:
Website: www.elizabethgilbert.com
Instagram: @elizabeth_gilbert_writer
Substack: Letters from Love
Tour Info: Tickets and Dates

Connect with The Aging Project:
Instagram: @theagingproject
Host Shelley Craft: @shelleycraftofficial

Join the Conversation:
Let us know how today’s episode inspired you! What breadcrumbs will you follow this year? Share your thoughts and tag us on Instagram.

Thank You for Listening!
We’re grateful to have you on this journey with us. Here’s to a new year filled with courage, creativity, and Big Magic. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

This episode is for anyone seeking to reclaim their vibrancy, reconnect with their spiritual health, and create a life filled with courage and creativity. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with the one and only Elizabeth Gilbert!

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast  need your support. 

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project  at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system. 

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. 

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria. 

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it. 

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood 

The Aging Project and You Must Try It , Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com

The lymphatic system is an unsung hero of our health, working quietly to keep our bodies clean, balanced, and functioning well—but how much do we really know about it?

In this episode, Chelsey Jean, a Sports Therapist and Naturopathic Practitioner, shines a spotlight on this vital system and offers practical insights on how to care for it.

Key Takeaways:

What is the Lymphatic System? It’s like your body’s clean-up crew, collecting waste, toxins, and harmful pathogens through a network of lymph nodes and vessels. With 15 liters of lymph fluid in our bodies (compared to 5 liters of blood), it plays a critical role in immune defense and nutrient transport, including vitamins like A, D, E, and CoQ10. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system has no pump and relies on movement and deep breathing to function.

Why Does It Get Stuck? Modern lifestyles, shallow breathing, and poor posture (think hunched over phones and screens) hinder lymph flow. Stress can turn the lymphatic system from a flowing river into a stagnant swamp, contributing to fatigue, brain fog, and a weakened immune system.

How to Support Your Lymphatic System: 1. Move Daily: Incorporate low-impact exercises like yoga, walking, or rebounding (mini-trampolines are great for lymphatic flow). 2. Deep Breathing: Helps push lymph fluid through the body, unlocking and unblocking stagnant areas. 3. Hydrate and Nourish: Eat nutrient-rich foods and stay hydrated to fuel your lymphatic system. 4. Manual Techniques: Try dry brushing or manual lymphatic drainage to stimulate flow. 5. Sweat and Detox: Ensure regular sweating through exercise or saunas to expel toxins.

Signs Your Lymphatic System Needs Attention: +Fatigue, brain fog, headaches, or recurring infections. + Puffy limbs, tightness, or a "bubble wrap" feeling under the skin. + A sluggish lymphatic system can also lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, affecting hormones and overall health. Emotional Connection and the Bigger Picture: Chelsey explains how emotional health impacts the lymphatic system. Stress, disconnection from joy, and lack of fun in life can cause stagnation. She encourages listeners to reconnect with what makes them happy as part of their lymphatic health journey.

Special Insights for Women: Women, especially during perimenopause and menopause, are more prone to lymphatic issues due to hormonal changes, inflammation, and fluid retention. Conditions like lymphedema (fluid buildup after lymph node removal) and lipedema (fat tissue hardening and trapping fluid) are also discussed, with practical tips for management.

Call to Action: Start small: Spend 2 minutes daily focusing on your lymph health—move, breathe deeply, and hydrate. Treat your body like a bottle of champagne: pop the cork and let the flow begin! Follow Chelsey on Instagram (@chelsey_jean_lymphatics) for more tips and resources.

This episode is packed with actionable advice and empowering insights to help you unlock the hidden potential of your lymphatic system. Let’s get moving and keep our bodies running like a Dyson, not a budget vacuum!

You Must Try It Special Offer:
Want to try Chelsey's game-changing products? Visit You Must Try It and enjoy 10% off when you set up a monthly subscription.

🛍️ Ready to give your lymphatic system some TLC?
👉 Get Your Lymphatic Massage Kit - HERE 

Join the Conversation:
Let us know what you think of the episode! Share your thoughts and gut health journey with us on Instagram @theagingproject 

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Felicity Evans, founder of Imbibe. Felicity shares how her battle with autoimmune conditions, including chronic mastitis, gut issues, and inflammation, led her to discover the transformative power of gut health. Her story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the profound connection between the gut and skin.

We discuss:

Takeaways:

Special Offer:
Want to try Felicity’s game-changing products? Visit You Must Try It and enjoy 10% off when you set up a monthly subscription.

Links & Resources:

Join the Conversation:
Let us know what you think of the episode! Share your thoughts and gut health journey with us on Instagram @theagingproject 

🎙️ Why do allergies seem to worsen—or even appear for the first time—as we age? In this eye-opening episode, we unpack the surprising connection between hormonal changes, allergies, and the immune system, guided by the expertise of Professor Pete Smith, a leading allergist.

From sneezing fits and itchy skin to migraines and food sensitivities, many of us experience allergy symptoms without fully understanding why. Here’s the key: your immune system may be working overtime, reacting to hormonal shifts like fluctuating estrogen and progesterone during menopause. These changes can amplify histamine levels and lead to heightened allergic responses.

We also explore the role of environmental factors—like microplastics, petrochemicals, and household toxins—that contribute to our body’s overactive inflammatory response. Did you know that 40% of people develop new food allergies after the age of 40? Or that histamine levels peak in the morning, explaining why symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes may feel worse when you wake up?

But don’t worry—there’s hope! Professor Pete shares actionable steps to calm your immune system, manage symptoms, and reduce your exposure to allergens and toxins. From choosing fresh, simple foods to swapping out harsh cleaning products, we discuss easy ways to take back control of your health.

Join us in taking small but powerful steps to calm your immune system and embrace a healthier, allergy-free future.

👂 Tune in now and discover how menopause, allergies, and the immune system are all connected—and how you can rewrite your health story.

Featuring:

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast  need your support. 

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project  at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system. 

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. 

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria. 

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it. 

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood 

The Aging Project and You Must Try It , Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com

Australia holds the unfortunate title of skin cancer capital of the world, with Townsville leading the charge. In today’s episode, we tackle this sobering reality and explore the importance of protecting your skin, especially the head and neck, where 95% of skin cancers occur.

Join me as we dive into the world of sunscreen—why it’s essential, how to make it a part of your daily routine, and why The KIND Sunscreen has become a standout favourite in our community. Hear firsthand from our YMTI customers are saying, “I’m so in love with this sunscreen that I’ve been telling everyone about it!”

Stay tuned for practical tips on keeping sunscreen handy, why its the perfect holiday gift idea, and an exclusive 10% off your first Your Must Try It order.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast  need your support. 

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project  at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system. 

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. 

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria. 

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it. 

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood 

The Aging Project and You Must Try It  Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com

In this episode we sit down with Nadahl Stelio, the inspiring founder of Recreation Beauty, a brand that’s redefining fragrance through natural ingredients and toxin-free formulations. Nadahl shares her journey from CLEO Magazine Beauty Editor to recognising the need for clean beauty options because of her own personal story. She's gone on to develop a collection of luxurious scents that blend the power of nature with the art of fragrance. We dive into the importance of transparency in the beauty industry, the unique process behind creating Recreation’s plant-based scents, and why Nadahl is so passionate about offering alternatives that are as safe as they are beautiful. Nadahl explains how each scent in the Recreation line is crafted to evoke memories, emotions, and a personal sense of expression without compromising health or environmental impact. This conversation is a perfect listen for those who want to learn more about clean beauty, the complexities of fragrance formulation, and how we can all be more mindful of what we put on our skin. Tune in to hear Nadahl’s vision, her journey as an entrepreneur, and why she believes everyone deserves a signature scent that feels as good as it smells.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast  need your support. 

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project  at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system. 

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. 

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria. 

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it. 

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood 

The Aging Project and You Must Try It , Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com

In this must-listen episode, we’re joined by Photios Poupoulas, a pharmacist who found an unexpected solution to his own health struggles. Photios shares his journey from dealing with unexplained gut issues to finding an affordable, effective way to manage them. A solution we can all access. His experience reveals how food sensitivities, intolerances and genetics can influence our health more than we realise. 

Whether it’s lactose, fructose, histamine, or other food sensitivities, Photios discusses how understanding your unique intolerances can be life-changing.  If you’ve been grappling with gut health challenges, tune in for insights, actionable steps and Intoleran's life changing products that could help you finally find relief. 

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast  need your support. 

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project  at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system. 

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. 

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria. 

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it. 

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood 

The Aging Project and You Must Try It , Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com

In this episode, we’re thrilled to feature our second community story—Cassandra Hughes, a cherished member of The Aging Project. Cassandra’s journey, much like life itself, is filled with unique chapters—each one a testament to her resilience and strength. From health challenges to finding love in unexpected places, and facing loss to embracing new beginnings, Cassandra’s story is rich with lessons many of us can relate to. With themes of health, loneliness, mental well-being, relationships, purpose, and gratitude woven throughout, Cassandra’s experience captures the essence of the aging journey—one where each chapter reveals more about ourselves and our resilience. Having recently completed The Aging Project’s Bye Bye Belly Fat program, she also shares how our community has supported her through her health goals and provided a space for connection.

Join us as we explore:

* Cassandra’s defining life chapters and the resilience they’ve built

* Her experience with The Aging Project and why she joined our community

* Insights into overcoming loneliness, building friendships, and finding purpose

* The benefits of being part of a supportive community for aging well

This conversation is a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling and connection. Through stories like Cassandra’s, we hope to create a space where real-life wisdom meets inspiration, reminding us that each of us has so much to offer. Thank you, Cassandra, for sharing your journey. And thank you, listeners, for being part of this community. If you’re inspired by Cassandra’s story and want to hear more like it, let us know in the comments or reviews.

Cassandra Hughes Links

Support Cassandra's Down Syndrome WA HERE 

Learn more about her work HERE 

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast  need your support. 

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project  at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system. 

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. 

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria. 

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it. 

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood 

The Aging Project and You Must Try It , Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com