State prevention agencies unite to tackle chronic disease in landmark forum
Australia’s four state-based prevention agencies have formalised a new forum to better tackle the shared drivers of chronic disease, also known as non-communicable diseases, which are the leading cause of illness, disability and death in Australia.
The newly established Prevention Agency Chief Executive Forum brings together the Chief Executives of Health and Wellbeing Queensland, Healthway (WA), VicHealth and Preventive Health SA — dedicated state agencies committed to improving public health outcomes.
While each agency operates within a different jurisdiction with different needs, they share a common focus: reducing the burden of chronic disease by addressing high risk factors, which include poor nutrition and physical inactivity.
Chronic disease is significantly costing Australia in terms of health and productivity. Excess weight was estimated to cost Australia $40 billion in 2019. This cost is projected to be almost $235 billion annually by 2060. While there has been a historic focus on acute healthcare and communicable diseases across Australia, it is vitally important to have a dedicated focus on chronic disease prevention.
“We know the risk factors for chronic disease are largely consistent across states. This includes many of the things that have a powerful influence on our health — such as the availability and affordability of healthy foods in our communities,” said Adjunct Prof Robyn Littlewood, Chief Executive of Health and Wellbeing Queensland.
“We are stronger together and have a real opportunity to heighten impact and ensure a sustainable health system into the future.”
The forum will meet regularly to collaborate on national preventive health priorities and share learnings. It will also explore opportunities for joint advocacy, research and program initiatives, and will be supported by a Prevention Agencies Senior Officers Group.
"The cost of preventable chronic disease is widespread. It is costing our economy billions and putting pressure on front line workers, families and communities across the country,” said Professor Anna Peeters AM, Chief Executive, VicHealth.
“Prevention is one of the smartest investments we can make. Through this Forum, we’re combining our strengths to advocate for policy, systems and environments that make healthy living easier for all Australians.”
“We know chronic disease contributes to 55% of hospitalisations in Australia and that most of that is preventable,” said Colin Smith, Chief Executive Officer, Healthway.
“By presenting a united voice on preventive health at the national level, we’re strengthening our collective ability to deliver better health outcomes for the communities we serve.”
Australia’s prevention agencies are unique to their states and reflect different models and remits, yet all are working to turn the tide on rising rates of preventable chronic disease.
Marina Bowshall, Chief Executive, Preventive Health SA, said: “Our work is already delivering meaningful results in communities — and by collaborating with our counterparts in other states, we can support more coordinated national efforts and amplify our collective impact.”
The launch of the Prevention Agency Chief Executive Forum marks a significant step forward in Australia’s approach to population health and chronic disease prevention.
“Ultimately, this collaboration is about delivering better health and wellbeing outcomes for all Australians — and doing so efficiently, effectively and equitably,” the Chief Executives said in a joint statement.