BCAL Diagnostics has launched its Avantect pancreatic and ovarian cancer tests in Australia, alongside expanding clinical data and establishing a national registry for its BREASTESTplus breast cancer test.
- Avantect pancreatic and ovarian cancer tests launched in Australia
- National ethics approval for BREASTESTplus clinical data registry
- $10 million convertible note facility established, $3 million drawn
- Received approximately $2.5 million R&D tax refund
- Focus on clinical adoption and commercial rollout in 2026
Launch of Avantect Tests Marks New Phase
BCAL Diagnostics Limited (ASX, BDX) has taken a significant step forward in early cancer detection with the launch of its Avantect pancreatic and ovarian cancer blood tests in Australia as of January 19, 2026. These tests, initially available in Sydney, target high-risk patients who currently lack effective early detection options, offering a blood-based diagnostic alternative that could transform clinical practice.
The Avantect tests have already gained regulatory approval in the UK and have been selected for the US Vanguard Trial, underscoring the growing international validation of BCAL’s epigenomic technology. The Australian rollout will begin with clinical consultations at the Sydney Breast Clinic, supported by BCAL’s North Ryde laboratory and ClearNote’s US facility, with plans for nationwide availability later in the year.
Expanding BREASTESTplus Clinical Foundations
Alongside Avantect’s launch, BCAL has strengthened the clinical foundation of its BREASTESTplus test, designed to improve breast cancer assessment in women with dense breast tissue. New data from a study involving 613 Australian women demonstrated a 90% sensitivity and an impressive 99.7% negative predictive value, expanding the test’s potential coverage to about half of women undergoing breast cancer evaluation.
Importantly, BCAL secured national ethics approval to establish the BREASTEST Registry, a prospective clinical data collection initiative involving up to 24,000 women over two to three years. This registry aims to provide real-world evidence on how BREASTESTplus influences diagnostic decisions, including imaging and biopsy rates, which could accelerate clinician adoption and support future reimbursement pathways.
Financial Position and Strategic Funding
Financially, BCAL reported a cash balance of $3.3 million at the end of December 2025. The company invested $1.3 million in research and development during the quarter and incurred $0.86 million in overheads. To bolster its capital position, BCAL established a $10 million convertible note facility, with $5 million committed and $3 million drawn down by quarter’s end. Additionally, the company received a $2.5 million R&D tax refund from the Australian Taxation Office, providing further financial support for ongoing innovation.
Looking Ahead, Commercialisation and Growth
BCAL’s CEO Shane Ryan emphasised the company’s focus on converting validated science into tangible clinical impact. The near-term priorities include driving awareness and commercial uptake of the Avantect tests through the ClearNote Health partnership, expanding the clinical network via digital and in-person marketing, and advancing next-generation versions of BREASTESTplus to support long-term growth. Revenue generation is expected to follow as market access broadens throughout 2026.
With these developments, BCAL is positioning itself at the forefront of early cancer detection in Australia, aiming to improve patient outcomes by enabling earlier diagnosis and reducing unnecessary procedures.
Bottom Line?
BCAL’s strategic launches and funding set the stage for a pivotal year in early cancer detection innovation.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will Avantect tests gain traction among Australian clinicians and patients?
- What impact will the BREASTEST Registry data have on reimbursement and clinical guidelines?
- Will BCAL pursue additional capital raises to support accelerated commercial expansion?