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Prioritising Public Health: A Call for Political Commitment
Healthy Cities Australia: Policy priorities for the 2025 Federal Election
Most Australians live in cities, making urban areas key to tackling noncommunicable diseases. By reducing risk factors, cities can improve public health outcomes.
Healthy Cities Australia urges all political parties to prioritise health and wellbeing in their policies. We call for commitments to:
1. First Nations Health
The health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians remains unacceptable. Self-determination, cultural respect, and community-led care are crucial.
We support Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) in delivering holistic, culturally appropriate care.
Commit to increasing funding for ACCHOs.
2. Australian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention
Australia needs a dedicated centre to tackle noncommunicable diseases and improve disease prevention.
Commit to establishing a fit-for-purpose Australian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention
3. Healthy Eating & Food Security
Our food system fails to provide healthy diets for all, leading to food insecurity and diet-related diseases.
We partner with organisations to deliver programs like Cook Chill Chat, The Dinner Table Project, and Food Fairness Illawarra.
Commit to funding and implementing the National Preventive Health and Obesity Strategies.
4. Physical Activity & Active Transport
Investing in walking, cycling, and public transport improves health and reduces disease risk.
Our programs include Community Walking Programs, More than a Cyclist, Active In-Betweens, and Play Illawarra.
Commit to safer walking and cycling infrastructure and better public transport.
5. Community Wellbeing
Social connections are vital for mental and physical health, yet isolation is a growing issue.
We support initiatives like Breathe Better Illawarra, Community Walking Programs, and Cook Chill Chat.
Commit to investing in community activities that improve wellbeing and reduce isolation.
Take Action
Healthy Cities Australia calls on all political parties to prioritise public health. Every policy decision shapes our future, invest in prevention, support community-led initiatives, and drive real change.
