News 2025 Local Government National Assembly: Health Advocacy Through Policy and Community Action At Healthy Cities Australia, we know that the health of our communities is shaped not just in hospitals and clinics, but in the everyday environments where people live, work, learn, and play. That’s why we champion the “Health in All Policies” approach—embedding health considerations into all areas of local government decision-making, from planning and transport to food systems and economic development. This week, the 31st National Assembly of Local Government will be held in Canberra by the Australian Local Government Association. The theme is ‘National Priorities Need Local Solutions’. Given that around 70% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050, the need to invest in healthy cities is critical. Local governments are the level of government closest to the community. They understand the unique needs of their populations and are often the first to respond to emerging health challenges. By pushing for clearer, public health outcomes in all policies, councils are not only protecting their community —they’re also supporting local health initiatives, working hand in glove with community services, not for profits and working to decrease exposure to the many and varied risk factors of chronic disease and climate degradation. Congratulations to Cr Rob Petreski and Shellharbour City Council who have put forth a motion at this year’s General Assembly calling for mandatory nutritional labelling and Health Star Ratings on all manufactured food and beverages. HCA was pleased to provide a letter of endorsement and support of this motion which reflects the leadership of local councils in advocating for systemic change that supports healthier choices and reduces the burden of chronic disease.