The Tasmanian Government is continuing to do all we can to ensure Tasmanians are as healthy and happy as possible, with consultation on a new 20-Year Preventive Health Strategy now open.
The Discussion Paper seeks community input into ways the Government can shape this new strategy, so that it meets the needs of all Tasmanians.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, said that all Tasmanians deserve to live healthy, active lives in communities that support connections to people, place and culture.
"This is a once in a generation opportunity to improve the lives of all Tasmanians," Minister Barnett said.
"There is evidence from around the world that effective action on preventive health requires action from all levels of government, and health leadership which is sustained over the long term.
"We have a vision under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future to transform Tasmania's health outcomes for the better, and today is a significant milestone.
"Over the past 10 years we have invested more than $1 billion in new hospitals and health infrastructure and will spend $1 billion more over the next decade to keep building a better health system for all Tasmanians.
"But prevention is always better than cure, and building better preventative health and embedding that into our communities is vital.
Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Scott McKeown, said that today's public health challenges are complex and will impact lives across generations.
"Chronic conditions are the leading cause of illness, disability, and death Australia-wide. Seven out of ten adults in Tasmania live with one or more chronic conditions," Dr McKeown said.
"Preventive health means the things we can do to keep people healthy and well, and prevent or avoid risk of poor health, illness, injury and early death.
"Improving the health of people in our State will lead to more people living fulfilling lives and will contribute to a thriving Tasmania."
The Department of Health is now seeking feedback from all stakeholders, including members of the Tasmanian community, about how preventive health can be reshaped and improved in our State.
All feedback will be used both to inform the development of a 20-year strategy and to guide the development of action plan.
Visit the Department of Health website at www.health.tas.gov.au/20-year-preventive-health-strategy to read the Discussion Paper and have your say.
There will be further opportunities to provide feedback, including a regional workshop.
