Released 09/10/2018
Local Canberra organisations have been invited to take part in the development of the ACT’s innovative approach to preventive health, with an aim to tackle some of the biggest health challenges facing our community.
With whole-of-community collaboration at the forefront, and a $4 million investment by the ACT Government, the Healthy and Active Living Strategy will help create the right environment to nurture the future health and wellbeing of all Canberrans.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris said the Healthy and Active Living Strategy would build on the important work done through the ACT’s nation-leading Healthy Weight Initiative, which began in 2013.
“The Healthy and Active Living Strategy will expand on the success being achieved by programs delivered under the Healthy Weight Initiative, including Fresh Tastes, Ride or Walk to School, It’s Your Move, Healthier Choices and Healthier Work.
“We want to shift the focus from treating illness, to preventing illness and keeping people well, so the Healthy and Active Living Strategy will help us understand local challenges, agree on top priorities for preventive health and work together to create the right environments that protect and promote health and wellbeing.
“A proposed framework will be tested and refined with representatives from across the community over the coming months. This includes non-government community organisations, businesses, and education and research sectors,” said Minister Fitzharris.
The aim of the Strategy is to:
- Make healthy and active living our way of life here in Canberra.
- Promote Canberra as a destination of choice for its healthy and active lifestyle.
- Connect research excellence and business innovation to achieve healthy and active living.
“We want as many people as possible to get involved in crafting our new approach to preventive health, and ensure the excellent work already underway and the views of all Canberrans are taken into consideration as we develop this vital strategy.
“A reference group is being established to help us understand local issues and establish priorities. As the Strategy is refined there will be an opportunity for broader public input too,” Minister Fitzharris said.
A number of research projects are currently being conducted to help inform the development of the Healthy and Active Living Strategy.
For more information on development of the Healthy and Active Living Strategy contact: healthyandactive@act.gov.au
- Statement ends -
Meegan Fitzharris, MLA | Media Releases
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