Rise and demise: a case study of public health nutrition in Queensland, Australia, over three decades

Abstract

Summary This case study describes the delivery and achievements of the public health nutrition programme in Queensland, Australia, over more than three decades. Analysis of publicly available documents related to statewide nutrition policy and programmes from 1983 to 2014 identified key inputs and programme impacts and outcomes, including an increase in fruit and vegetable intake by 1.1 serves per person per day and rates of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months quadrupled. Mapping factors and milestones against a framework on determinants of political priority highlighted correlation with effective nutrition promotion policy and practice. Identified enablers included the influence of policy champions and advocates, quality of governance, focus on whole-of-population approaches, and periods of political will and economic prosperity. Key barriers included changes of ideology with government leadership; lack of commitment to long-term implementation and evaluation; and limited recognition of and support for preventive health and nutrition promotion. The case study shows that a coordinated, well-funded, intersectoral approach to improve nutrition and prevent chronic disease and malnutrition in all its forms can be achieved and produce promising impacts at state level, but that sustained effort is required to secure and protect investment. Political support for long-term investment in nutrition is essential to reduce the high cost of all diet-related diseases. Public health leadership to better prepare for risks around political cycles, secure adequate resources for evaluation, and better communicate impacts and outcomes may help protect future investments and achievements.