Australia’s first National Obesity Strategy was launched last week, colliding with World Obesity Day, hoping to address overweight and obesity across the nation. 

The new strategy spans 10 years, driven by two foundational goals: to halt the rise and reverse the trend of obesity in adults, and to reduce overweight and obesity in children and adolescents by at least five per cent by 2030.

A key consideration in its delivery will be Australian demographics that could influence weight, including living in regional and remote areas, and how those impacts should be individually addressed. 

Minister for Health Greg Hunt said that the strategy will be delivered across a range of initiatives, sectors, and organisations. 

“We know Australians in good health are better able to lead fulfilling and productive lives, and can participate fully in their community, their jobs, and their education," he said.

"COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of our health and the economic benefits health can bring.”

According to the most recent health survey on the NSW population (2020), Western NSW has overtaken Far West NSW for the highest percentage of the population being overweight or obese at 71.2 per cent. 

Coming in second was the Far West Local Health District, at 68.8 per cent of the population being overweight or obese in 2020.

“If the current trend continues, more than 18 million Australians will be overweight or obese by 2030,” Mr Hunt said. 

Research conducted in the making of the strategy found that both drinks and food can be up to 30 per cent more expensive in regional, rural, and remote areas than in major cities, influencing what locals consume. 

Within the plan, efforts to counter the health divide include building partnerships with supermarket chains to encourage stocking healthier and affordable foods for communities experiencing disadvantages. 

Subsidies, vouchers and other financial incentives for sport activities will also be implemented to boost participation numbers in rural areas and promote a healthy lifestyle.

“Our primary focus is on prevention and the factors which contribute to this major health issue. It will also support the 14 million Australians living with being overweight or obesity, to live a healthier life,” Minister Hunt said.

The Obesity Strategy comes as a result of the Select Senate Committee Inquiry into the Obesity Epidemic (2018) and a National Obesity Summit (2019), and saw 2,750 individuals and organisations contribute to consultation.