LGAT Submission - Tasmania’s 20-year Preventative Health Strategy
In collaboration with all 29 councils, we have submitted a response to the proposed 20-year Preventative Health Strategy for Tasmania.
We welcome the Tasmanian Government’s commitment to improving preventative health and wellbeing across the state. Our councils see firsthand how health is shaped not just by medical care, but by the broader conditions in which people live, such as housing, income, education, social connection, and the environment. Additionally, legislated responsibilities already place councils at the heart of community wellbeing.
We strongly support a whole-of-government approach to preventative health. Real, lasting change happens when all levels of government work together with a shared vision, coordinated response and clear responsibilities. As the level of government closest to the community, councils are uniquely positioned to deliver the infrastructure, services, and environments that support healthier lives.
To play a part in Tasmania’s 20-year Preventative Health Strategy, local government needs to be recognised as a key partner and be supported through:
- Strong leadership and governance
- A skilled and capable workforce
- Sustainable and contemporary funding models.
We also urge the State Government to look beyond the health sector. Fair funding for infrastructure, leadership in regional land-use planning, full implementation of the Tasmanian Housing Strategy, and action on climate risks are all essential to achieving better health outcomes.
We also note that one of the strategy’s goals is to create “liveable, vibrant and connected” communities. This cannot be achieved without the active involvement of councils. Therefore, direct engagement and partnership with local government will be critical to the success of this strategy.
Councils stand ready to work towards building healthier, more resilient communities, but require the right support and resources.