Jun 18, 2016 - commented to the Sydney Morning Herald his list of demands with his fourth demand to change the emphasis
PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
MEDIA RELEASE 18 June 2016
www.phaa.net.au
PHAA welcomes comprehensive Labor prevention policy The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) welcomes Labor’s prevention policy announced today focussing on preventing chronic disease by targeting poor nutrition, physical inactivity, tobacco and harmful alcohol use said PHAA President Professor Heather Yeatman. “This policy will have a major impact in reducing chronic diseases which are the leading cause of illness, disability and death in Australia. Labor has listened and is implementing a policy which shows a real understanding that prevention must be a top priority for our health system,” said Professor Yeatman. The Healthy Communities and Chronic Disease Prevention plan was released today and has a five-‐point plan to prevent chronic disease, with a special focus on communities. “This commitment from Labor is a significant step in improving the overall health of Australians and preventing chronic diseases including cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes,” said Professor Yeatman. “Investing significant funds and resources into nutrition, physical activity, tobacco and alcohol will have a major impact on reducing chronic disease in the community. Labor is demonstrating the national leadership and commitment that is required to secure Australia’s future health. “We especially welcome Labor’s ‘Healthy Communities’ plan to target communities who need most support to achieve the health opportunities that others take for granted,” said Professor Yeatman. “PHAA also welcomes the $20 million investment to revive the successful National Tobacco Campaign together with additional action to target vulnerable groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with poor mental health and people living in rural and remote areas. These investments are a vital step to closing the life expectancy gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” said Professor Yeatman. The policy will also introduce a National Alcohol Strategy targeting alcohol advertising to children and reducing alcohol related harms. A recent survey conducted by the Foundation of Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) showed 70% of Australians believe alcohol advertising should be banned on television before 8:30pm. “PHAA looks forward to a similar commitment from other parties. Today, Senator Nick Xenophon commented to the Sydney Morning Herald his list of demands with his fourth demand to change the emphasis on health care towards more preventative measures,” said Professor Yeatman. “Prevention is key to improving the lives of all Australians and policies such as these will bring enormous benefits to Australia’s health,” concluded Professor Yeatman. For further information/comment: Sophie Brown (Heather Yeatman comment)