Sun Safety Policy Implementation in Australian Primary Schools

Current SunSmart policy in Australia is implemented and reviewed by the Cancer Council using self-reported survey data.

Researchers conducted an external assessment of the implementation of sun safety policies in Australian primary schools by conducting a national survey with questions constructed based on the SunSmart policy. Multivariable binary logistic regressions were performed to understand the relationships between the various sun-safety activities and school characteristics.

We hypothesised that schools with a higher ultraviolet (UV) exposure rating would perform better due to higher perceived risk. This was true for year-round uniform policy and presence of outdoor sails. Use of sunscreen in Australian schools remains inadequate. Students at more advantaged schools were 2.1 times more likely to use sunscreen, potentially demonstrating a relationship between financial access or awareness, providing an avenue for future funding decisions. Use of sun-protective eyewear remains insufficient, with only 11.1% of schools encouraging use, but Catholic school students are twice as likely to wear sunglasses. Schools in extreme UV areas had the lowest odds ratio of sunglasses use, highlighting a clear target for future intervention. Other important differences in school type were found, including that independent school students have a 58% lower likelihood of wearing SunSmart adherent uniforms.

We found statistically significant inequalities in sun safety behaviours in different school types in Australia, providing utility for future funding and policy decisions.