News NCOSS interviews our CEO, Kelly Andrews We’re thrilled to share that our CEO, Kelly Andrews, was recently featured in a Member Spotlight interview with the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS), highlighting the journey, purpose, and impact of Healthy Cities Australia (HCA). From Local Beginnings to National Leadership Healthy Cities Australia has a proud history that began in 1987 as Healthy Cities Illawarra—one of three Australian pilot sites established by the Federal Government to replicate the World Health Organization’s global Healthy Cities movement. Since rebranding as HCA, we’ve expanded our vision to strengthen leadership across Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region, continuing to champion healthy, equitable, and sustainable cities for all. Our mission remains clear: to make the healthy choice the easy choice through prevention, collaboration, and community action. Advocacy for Healthier Urban Environments Today, more than half the world’s population lives in urban areas, a number heading toward 70% by 2050. Cities are where climate change, chronic disease, and inequity intersect, and that’s where our work matters most. Healthy Cities Australia takes a whole-of-community approach, partnering with local councils, health services, researchers, and community groups to influence city planning and policies that prioritise: Active transport and design for walkability Green spaces and clean-air environments Food security and access to nutritious options Social connection and inclusion across communities We advocate for embedding health and equity into every level of urban policy, from transport and housing to climate response, because prevention is always more powerful than treatment. Supporting Young People: The “Active in Betweens” Program One of our most loved initiatives is Active in Betweens, an after-school program supporting children aged 8–12 in socially disadvantaged communities across the Illawarra. The program provides a safe, inclusive, and fun environment where kids can: Engage in physical activity through games and play Learn healthy eating habits through hands-on cooking experiences Build social skills, connection, and confidence through group activities The outcomes speak for themselves, 84% of participants become more physically active, 94% report stronger social connections, and almost every child says they feel safe and supported. More than half of participants identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, demonstrating its cultural safety and community trust. A Call to City Leaders So, what can urban decision-makers do right now to create healthier cities? Kelly highlights two powerful steps: Prioritise health-supportive urban environments. Invest in walkable neighbourhoods, parks, safe transport, and green infrastructure. Embed health and equity into all policy areas. Every planning, housing, and climate decision affects population health and wellbeing. As Kelly Andrews puts it, “City leaders must make decisions with the future in mind, to design environments that nurture health, not just respond to illness.” Learn More Read the full NCOSS Member Spotlight interview with Kelly Andrews here.To explore our programs, research, and advocacy work, visit Healthy Cities Australia.