The Obesity Policy Coalition (OPC) has welcomed the important commitment made by the COAG Health Ministers to develop a national strategy on obesity.
Jane Martin, Executive Manager of the OPC, said the decision marked an important step forward in tackling Australia’s obesity epidemic.
“Given that obesity is one of the greatest public health challenges confronting Australia, government recognition of obesity prevention as a national priority is crucial. While we welcome the progress and commitment at a state and territory level, it’s extremely concerning that Australia still does not have a national obesity strategy.”
“The Obesity Policy Coalition has been leading the calls for action, it’s now time for government to take responsibility and show leadership on this issue. We have agreement from around 40 public health, community and academic groups who have identified eight policy priorities in Tipping the Scales. We have the opportunity to save a generation from a lifetime of preventable chronic diseases. What’s holding Australia back from slowing this epidemic is not lack of solutions – we know what needs to be done, it’s simply a lack of implementation.
“We welcome the leadership from health ministers across the country today and the strategy needs to establish a whole of government approach to develop a sustained, coordinated and funded obesity strategy to improve the health of all Australians and particularly our children.”
“We look forward to working with the federal government in progressing this important work.”