Who We Are
Discover Our Purpose
What's Happening at HCA
Supporting Affordable Nutrition
Encouraging Movement for All Ages
Promoting Health and Unity
Help Make a Difference
Together Creating Impact
Support Healthier Futures
View Upcoming Events
Join our community
Manage your account
We focus on preventative health, reducing disease and creating inclusive, thriving communities across Australia, striving for a healthier, brighter future for everyone.
Our mission is to reduce the prevalence of chronic disease and prevent avoidable hospitalisations by improving health and wellbeing outcomes in communities that need it most.
We address health challenges comprehensively, recognising that medical care alone cannot create lasting change.
We design and deliver evidence-based health promotion programs that prevent and reduce chronic disease. Our work aligns with the principles of the World Health Organization Healthy Cities Movement, ensuring best practice and accountability.
We believe health is built together. We are active members of the WHO Alliance for Healthy Cities and work in partnership with local government, universities, health services, community organisations and the private sector to address multifaceted health challenges.
We advocate for policies and systems that improve population health outcomes and reduce inequity. We recognise the diverse needs of our communities and focus on building local capacity to support lasting change.
We foster social connection and inclusion, particularly for people who experience disadvantage or marginalisation. Healthy communities are those where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
We are the Secretariat of the Australian Chapter of the Alliance for Healthy Cities since 2007.
We are Steering Committee members of the Alliance for Healthy Cities and subscribe to the framework of Healthy Cities initiated by the World Health Organisation, that is, that the social, economic and physical environment is the key to the health and wellbeing of our citizens.
We are a health promotion charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not for Profit Commission (ACNC)
We are an incorporated association administered by NSW Fair Trading.
We have deductible gift recipient status (DGR) with the Australian Taxation Office.
20 staff
143 active volunteers
6,137 volunteer hours
53 community programs
633 participants
1563 program delivery hours
Food security and food fairness
Healthy eating and nutrition
Physical activity and active transport
Mental wellbeing and social connection
Urban planning and healthier environments
Children and young people’s health
Programs such as Active In-Betweens, Cook Chill Chat, Food Fairness Illawarra, and community walking initiatives reflect our commitment to creating enduring improvements in health and wellbeing.
Healthy Cities Australia is governed by an elected Board of Directors who bring strong governance, subject-matter expertise and leadership to the organisation.
Our team includes skilled professional staff, supported by a dedicated network of casual employees and volunteers who bring passion, lived experience and commitment to every program we deliver.
Our team also expands to include a highly qualified and dedicated team of casual employees and volunteers who make our programs shine.
Together, we work to:
– Advocate for healthier cities– Support local communities– Strengthen partnerships– Drive long-term transformation in health and wellbeing
Chair
Deputy Chair
Secretary & Public Officer & CEO
Active Transport Taskforce Coordinator
Program Coordinator, Active in Betweens
Senior Health Promotion Officer
Project Manager – Regional Food Hub
Office Administrator
Finance Manager
Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator
Health Promotion Officer Food Sustainability & Community Nutrition
Team Leader Child Health Promotion
Communications & Digital Marketing Coordinator
Asthma Projects Coordinator
Fair Food Coordinator
1987
Healthy Cities Illawarra Pilot Project
1988
Heart Health and Nutrition Taskforce Cholesterol Screening Van
1989
1990
(later Smoke-Free Illawarra)
1991
1992
(Berkeley + Bellambi)
1995
1997
2005
A community based alliance promoting fair food for all
2006
2007
2010
2011
(2528 project)
2013
2014
2015
2016
2018
Winner – AFIA Award for Creative Developments in Healthy Cities Achieving SDGs through Healthy Cities Programs
2019
2020
2021
(SAARTS)
2022
2023
Healthy Cities Australia exists to support healthy people, connected communities and healthier urban environments. Through advocacy, partnership and evidence-based practice, we work with communities to address today’s health challenges, and prevent tomorrow’s.
We are proud to be part of a global movement, grounded in local action, creating healthier cities across Australia.
Subscribe and get a FREE guide to the Top 10 Playgrounds in the Illawarra + COFFEE!
Plus, stay informed on wellbeing programs and the impact we’re making through public health initiatives.