Australia’s 10-year obesity strategy addresses projections that 47% of adults will be obese by 2035. Developed with 2,750+ stakeholders, it targets an $11.8 billion problem that disproportionately affects Indigenous communities, diverse populations, and regional areas.
The framework focuses on:
- Creating supportive environments for healthy choices
- Empowering individuals through education
- Improving healthcare access and early intervention
Implementation involves federal-state collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and community-led solutions. A strategy map is included in the summary. Goals include halting adult obesity growth and reducing childhood obesity by 5% by 2030.
Australia’s obesity rates are rising, with projections indicating that by 2035, 47% of adults and a significant proportion of children will be affected.
Contributing factors include the availability of unhealthy foods, sedentary lifestyles, and economic barriers to nutritious options. Obesity increases the risk of chronic diseases and exacerbates vulnerability to conditions like COVID-19.
In response, the National Obesity Strategy 2022–2032 aims to prevent, reduce, and treat obesity in Australia. Developed with input from over 2,750 stakeholders, the strategy sets targets to halt the rise in adult obesity prevalence and reduce childhood obesity by at least 5% by 2030. It focuses on creating supportive environments for healthy choices, empowering individuals through education, and improving healthcare access for early intervention.
However, experts note that while the strategy outlines necessary actions, its implementation lacks clear direction and sufficient funding. There is a call for increased investment in prevention and treatment, including reducing unhealthy food marketing, implementing more explicit food labeling, introducing a health levy on sugary drinks, and promoting physical activity.
Addressing obesity is critical for improving public health outcomes and reducing healthcare system burdens. A comprehensive, well-funded, and culturally sensitive approach is essential to tackle this growing epidemic effectively.
