Northern Territory first to participate in National Obesity Strategy Consultation

A National Obesity Strategy Consultation paper has been developed that seeks the views of Territorians on obesity, a condition that affects more than 14 million Australians - in the Territory 30% of adults and 8% of children are obese.

The ideas gathered from the consultation paper will assist the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Health Council to refine ideas already gathered and presented in the consultation paper.

Community forums and discussions commenced with face-to-face consultations in the Territory this week. The strategy will result in a 10-year plan to reduce obesity in their communities, through sustained preventive action.

The Territory is starting to see some success in tackling obesity. At last week’s Health COAG, Northern Territory Health Minister Natasha Fyles shared the results of the Healthy Stores 2020 research project with her interstate counterparts.

The 12-week study involved 14 remote stories in the NT and six in Queensland. Strategies included not promoting unhealthy food and drinks in store, removing unhealthy foods from point of sale and high traffic areas and, increasing awareness of which foods and drinks are unhealthy.

The collaborative study between the Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) and Monash University found there was an overall 6% reduction in the purchase of targeted unhealthy food and drinks while there was an overall 13% increase in healthy food and drinks.

No reduction in the stores’ gross profit was recorded during the study.

Minister Fyles advised that "we know that one of the contributors to better social outcomes is a healthy diet and lifestyle.

“Being overweight is a complex area influenced by poverty, lack of education and other health-related issues, and we know a comprehensive strategy is needed to address it.

“This consultation process provides an opportunity to guide government on how we can work with others to create environments that support a healthy weight, and empower individuals and communities.

“The consultation has kicked off in the Northern Territory and I urge Territorians to have their say on how the strategy should be framed, and what preventive action and support should be included.

“It is important we work together to create a healthier Territory and a healthier Australia.”

To view the National Obesity Strategy Consultation paper visit click here

Consultation closes on 15th  December.