Briefing: Healthy Spaces & Places project, Australia

Abstract

Healthy Spaces & Places is a landmark Australian project that takes a national approach to managing environments. Its focus is on the physical characteristics of where Australians live, work and play and how these influence physical and mental health and wellbeing. Australia has an unprecedented level of preventable disease, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. Research shows that the built environment can significantly affect people's desire to be active, as well as their actual levels of physical activity. The Healthy Spaces & Places project shows how planners, engineers and other built environment professionals can help improve health and wellbeing through their everyday work decisions. It also fosters collaborative partnerships and supports social connectiveness. Funded by the Department of Health and Ageing, it is a unique collaboration between the Australian Local Government Association, the National Heart Foundation of Australia and the Planning Institute of Australia.