Australia is renowned for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. However, beneath this idyllic image lies a concerning health reality: chronic diseases are the leading cause of illness, disability, and death in the country. In fact, one in two Australians lives with a chronic condition, and one in five has multiple chronic conditions.
In response to this health crisis, a coalition of scientists, clinicians, and health experts has developed a set of health targets for Australia to achieve by 2025. These targets aim to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases and promote a healthier nation for current and future generations.
Here are the top ten priority actions recommended:
1. Reduce sugar consumption
Excessive sugar intake is a significant contributor to obesity and diabetes. Currently, one in two adults and three in four children in Australia consume more sugar than recommended, increasing their risk of weight gain and chronic diseases such as heart disease. To combat this, experts propose implementing a 20% tax on sugary drinks to discourage consumption and promote healthier choices.
Wondering how to cut back on sugar without feeling deprived? Explore our article on 4 simple steps to eating less sugar for easy, everyday tips.
2. Restrict junk food marketing
The pervasive marketing of unhealthy foods, especially to children, influences dietary habits and preferences. To address this, there is a call to restrict junk food advertising aimed at young audiences, thereby reducing the appeal and consumption of unhealthy foods among impressionable youth.
3. Continue anti-smoking campaigns
Australia has made significant strides in reducing smoking rates through effective public health campaigns. Sustaining and enhancing these efforts is crucial to further decrease smoking prevalence and related health issues. Recent initiatives include introducing warnings on individual cigarette filters and phasing out menthol cigarettes.
4. Target high-risk groups for smoking cessation
Certain populations, including remote communities, young Indigenous people, and individuals with mental illness, exhibit higher smoking rates. The goal is to reduce smoking prevalence in these groups by at least 10% by 2025 through targeted interventions and support programs.
5. Promote physical activity
Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for chronic diseases. Alarmingly, over 90% of young Australians do not meet the recommended physical activity guidelines. Initiatives to encourage regular exercise among youth are essential to improve overall health and reduce disease risk.
6. Review alcohol taxation
Excessive alcohol consumption poses significant health and social challenges. Experts recommend increasing alcohol taxation by 10% to mitigate these impacts, discourage overconsumption, and promote public health.
7. Address unemployment and mental health
Unemployment can exacerbate mental health issues, creating a cycle that is challenging to break. Implementing programs that assist individuals with mental illness in returning to and maintaining employment can improve mental well-being and economic stability.
8. Reduce salt intake
High salt consumption is linked to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Australians typically consume more than the recommended 5 grams of salt per day. Reducing salt intake by 30% could potentially save over 3,500 lives annually. This can be achieved by consuming fewer processed foods and increasing public awareness about the dangers of excessive salt consumption.
Curious about how salt affects your body? Discover the health risks of too much salt and how to cut back in our guide on why reducing salt matters.
9. Enhance heart health education
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia. Many individuals are not receiving appropriate treatment to mitigate their risk. Improving education on heart health and ensuring access to effective treatments are vital steps toward reducing heart disease prevalence.
10. Monitor progress through regular health surveys
To effectively track and achieve these health goals, conducting a national health survey every five years is recommended. Regular data collection will enable the assessment of progress, identification of areas needing improvement, and formulation of informed public health strategies.
Final thoughts
Improving Australia’s collective health isn’t just about individual choices—it also requires broader action, policy support, and ongoing education. These ten steps offer a clear direction for creating a healthier nation—one where people have better access to nutritious food, physical activity, health education, and support services.
Whether you’re looking to improve your own wellbeing or support healthier habits in your community, small, consistent changes can make a real impact. From cutting back on sugar to staying active and informed, each step moves us closer to a stronger, healthier Australia for current and future generations.
