Friday, 8 March, 2024
Dear Editor,
The Heart Foundation is calling on Queensland's Local Government candidates to prioritise the health and wellbeing of our communities.
A recent survey by Queensland Walks highlighted the urgent need for action, with over half of respondents lacking a sealed footpath in their area, 67% reporting poor maintenance, 74% finding paths too narrow, and a staggering 84% citing a lack of shade.
Additionally, 61% struggle with safe road crossings, and 64% are concerned about high vehicle speeds.
Lifestyle choices and the built environment significantly influence heart disease risk, highlighting the pivotal role of local governments in fostering community infrastructure that promotes healthy activity.
We urge candidates to pledge investment in infrastructure that bolsters healthy lifestyles, such as:
- Walkable, shaded green spaces that encourage physical activity.
- Safe, interconnected networks for active travel.
- Environments that facilitate access to nutritious food.
Implementing these measures will not only enhance community health but also demonstrate candidates' commitment to public health and wellbeing.
We encourage Local Governments and their representatives to utilise the Heart Foundation's evidence-based resources, including the Healthy Active by Design web resource www.healthyactivebydesign.com.au, to inform their strategies.
This election let's place the health of our communities at the forefront of policy-making.
Sheree Hughes
General Manager, Queensland
Heart Foundation
ENDS
Contact details:
Shaun Inguanzo, Media Manager
0404 769 054