Victoria's first public health plan to tackle chronic disease

2 September 2011

Victoria’s first ever Public Health and Wellbeing Plan to fight rising rates of chronic and preventable diseases has been released.

Presenting the plan to parliament, Minister for Health and Ageing David Davis said the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2011-2015 sets the agenda for improving health and wellbeing across the state over the next four years.

“We need to ensure Victorians are better informed about healthier lifestyles, and that individuals and families have the resources to take the necessary steps for keeping well,” Mr Davis said.

The plan aims to achieve lasting improvements in the health of Victorians, with a particular focus on the needs of those who are worse off and experiencing poorer health than others in the community.

“An effective prevention system, along with a strong and responsive healthcare system, can help reduce the growing burden of chronic disease and injury we are now facing, and support people to enjoy a greater sense of wellbeing,” Mr Davis said.

The plan aims to engage communities and strengthen systems for health protection, health promotion, and preventive health care across all sectors and levels of government.

Consultation on the plan has taken place with key non-government organisations including the Heart Foundation, The Cancer Council and Diabetes Australia.

Further feedback on the plan is encouraged to help develop a progressive and responsive prevention strategy for the state.

Further information

To download the plan or to provide feedback, visit the department’s Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan website.