Cook Labor Government to launch first ever WA Preventative Health Strategy

• Six roundtables being held to help shape the development of the landmark WA Preventative Health Strategy
• Senior leaders and health experts from across government, non-government, community, and research institutes to participate
• Strategy to ramp up the Cook Labor Government's focus on keeping Western Australians healthy and active

The Cook Labor Government is prioritising a healthier future for Western Australians, with the creation of the first ever WA Preventative Health Strategy.

The landmark Strategy will be informed by six roundtables, hosted by Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton, in collaboration with WA Health, the Mental Health Commission, and Healthway.

Around 150 senior representatives across government, non-government organisations, community groups, universities and research institutes will come together at the roundtables to help shape the Strategy through discussion and collaboration.

This will include representation from key health stakeholders including the Public Health Association of Australia, Australian Medical Association, The Kids Research Institute Australia, and Cancer Council WA.

The Strategy will help shape the future of preventative health in Western Australia through tangible, strategic measures that align with the Cook Labor Government's commitment to support the health and wellbeing of our community.

Roundtable discussions will focus on mental health and wellbeing in the early years; health promotion; immunisations; cancer screenings; sexual health; targeted population strategies and cross-government initiatives.

Several preventative health topics will be discussed, such as ways to boost screening and vaccination rates, promoting healthy eating and active living, injury prevention, and a public health approach to the prevention of tobacco, e-cigarettes and vaping.

Feedback from the discussions will inform the next stages of work, with a public consultation process set to open in the coming months via the Department of Health to encourage Western Australians to provide input on the Strategy.

The Cook Labor Government will continue to prioritise keeping Western Australians well. 

Comments attributed to Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton:

"Prevention is the most powerful tool we have to improve health outcomes, and the WA Preventative Health Strategy is about making sure Western Australians can live healthier lives.

"Through these roundtables, we are bringing together health experts, community organisations, and researchers to help guide the development of this Strategy.

"Their insights will ensure the Strategy is grounded in real-world experience, and focused on practical ways we can make the biggest difference in people's lives.

"We want Western Australians to be engaged in this process, and we will be opening consultation to the broader community in the coming months.

"By investing in prevention now, we are building a stronger, more sustainable health system for generations to come."

Comments attributed to Health Minister Meredith Hammat:

"The Cook Labor Government is prioritising the health of Western Australians, and as we know in health - prevention is key.

"From encouraging strong vaccination uptake for vaccine-preventable illness, promoting healthier habits, and increasing access to early screening - our focus will remain on practical measures we can take to keep Western Australians healthy and reduce pressure on our hospitals.

"Our hard-working health workforce and advocates in the community know best - and these roundtables are about listening, learning and acting for the future."