Australia's public health experts have urged the next Australian Government to take action on obesity, reduce gambling harms, and address climate change to protect human health.
These are among seven priorities released today by the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA), which represents 2,000 public health professionals, ahead of this year's federal election.
"Australia is facing immediate and long-term challenges, which places increasing strains on our healthcare system, and diminishes people's quality of life," PHAA CEO, Adj Prof Terry Slevin said.
"Much of the disease and ill-health in our community is preventable.
"We know how to address the underlying causes of many illnesses, but Australia continues to focus on treating disease, rather than investing in prevention.
"For example, obesity and overweight in 2024 surpassed tobacco as the leading cause of preventable disease in Australia.
"We just need action and funding secured over the short and long term.
"Strengthening our nation's public health programs will not only lead to healthier populations, but will also improve the health of our economy.
"We can do a lot more to promote good health, which sets us up for a healthier life as we age."
The Association's election priorities, available at voteforpublichealth.com are:
- Establish a permanent Australian Centre for Disease Control
- Invest in prevention to save lives and money
- Act on obesity to help more Australians maintain a healthy weight
- Invest in First Nations people's health to close the gap
- Protect our health by acting on climate change
- Reform gambling so people lose less
- Introduce universal oral health care through Medicare
