New Zealanders live under the harshest UV radiation on the planet, yet we pay GST on the one thing that protects us.

Melanoma is an alarming health issue in New Zealand. The country has the world’s highest death rate, with more than 350 New Zealanders losing their lives to the disease each year.

However, the current Goods and Services Tax (GST) imposed on these life-saving products effectively acts as a "cancer-free tax," adding an unnecessary burden to those who are trying to protect themselves from harmful UV rays.

By removing this tax from sunscreen products, we can encourage more people to use these essential items regularly and potentially save lives.

Katey-Ellen Mandy, founder of Raaie says: “Hundreds of Kiwi lose a loved one to skin cancer each and every year. We don’t think a cancerous tax on sunscreen product is right and won’t play a part in it – pledging to remove the 15% “cancer tax” on our sunscreen products."

Dr Bronwen McNoe, Researcher in skin cancer prevention at the University of Otago says: “Removing the GST on sunscreen would lower the cost making it more affordable for New Zealanders to use this highly effective sun protection method.”

This petition has been launched in New Zealand to urge the government to follow the lead of Australia, and drop the GST levied on sunscreen products.

We call upon our government officials to recognize this pressing issue and take immediate action. Let's put an end to this unjust taxation that discourages healthy practices among our citizens. Sign this petition now, let's fight against skin cancer together!