Public health planning for local government
Public health planning is a proactive, systematic approach to enhancing the health and well-being of communities. It involves assessing health needs of the community, setting priorities, and developing evidence-based strategies to foster sustainable, equitable, and collaborative health improvements. Through careful planning, we aim to shift focus toward prevention and long-term resilience, benefiting individuals and communities alike.
The Department of Health and local governments share a statutory responsibility for public health. Part 5 of the Public Health Act 2016 was mandated on 4 June 2024, requiring the Chief Health Officer to publish the State Public Health Plan 2025-2030 by 4 June 2025. Local governments must prepare and publish their local public health plans by 4 June 2026. This reinforces the commitment at both state and local levels to effectively plan the health and well-being of all residents.
About public health plans
A public health plan outlines the public health needs of the community it serves and establishes clear objectives and policy priorities to effectively address these needs. It is composed of two key elements:
- Health profile: An analysis of health data, trends, and determinants that provides insight into the health status and needs of a population, whether at the state (state plan) or local level (local plan). This profile identifies public health risks and highlights areas where intervention can make a meaningful impact.
- Strategic plan: A roadmap for action, outlining objectives, priorities, and policies designed to promote, protect, and improve public health. The roadmap should be informed by consultation with the local community, and used to guide the delivery of essential public health services and interventions.
Under Part 5 of the Public Health Act 2016, two types of public health plans are required:
- State Public Health Plan –prepared by the Chief Health Officer and
- Local public health plans – prepared by each local government district
Draft objectives and priorities for the State Public Health Plan 2025 – 2030
To support local governments in their planning, the Chief Health Officer has released draft objectives and priorities for the new State Public Health Plan 2025 – 2030. They provide a strategic framework to help local governments develop plans that align with state priorities while also meeting local needs.
Applying the State Public Health Plan at the local level
The new State Public Health Plan outlines objectives and policy priorities for the entire state. Local governments are encouraged to adapt these priorities to suit their community’s unique health needs. Not every state priority will be applicable to all local areas, and local planning should reflect both health data and community input specific to each district.
The updated Public Health Planning Guide for Local Government is scheduled for release in January 2025. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help local governments develop and implement effective public health plans tailored to their communities.
More information:
Last reviewed: 09-12-2024
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Public Health