New research on health and climate change
The Australian Government has published a new report on Australian climate change and health research, which outlines existing knowledge, identifies gaps, and makes recommendations about future climate and health research priorities.
27 November 2024
MEETING the challenges of climate change, including for our health system, is an Australian Government priority. Research is vital to addressing the impacts of climate change on health and health systems in Australia.
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney said, “We want to support Australia’s best and brightest to consider interventions that will address the health impacts of climate change and reduce the Australian health system’s contribution to climate change.
“Mapping the current research and pinpointing where funding could be most usefully directed is a key part of delivering on Australia’s first National Health and Climate Change Strategy.
“We need solid evidence to protect the health and wellbeing of Australians and build the resilience and sustainability of the health system.”
Undertaken in line with the National Health and Climate Strategy, the Systematic Mapping Review of Australian Research on Climate Change and Health Interventions summarises current Australian research on interventions and policies to support:
- Health system decarbonisation;
- Health system adaptation, vulnerability and resilience; and
- Achieving health benefits from emissions reduction and adaptation activities in all sectors.
The review found that more research would help to support practical action in each of these areas. The review emphasised the importance of research that clearly considers priority populations – such as First Nations people, the elderly, those living in rural and remote communities and those living in areas prone to natural disasters – to ensure health equity in a changing climate.
The review was conducted in collaboration with the Healthy Environment and Lives (HEAL) Network, demonstrating the Australian Government’s commitment to partnerships with academia to deliver good policy.
Professor Sotiris Vardoulakis, HEAL Network Director, said “There is a growing body of Australian research focusing on interventions that aim to protect our health from climate extremes, such as heatwaves, floods and bushfires.
“Research is also increasing in areas of the health system where reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can help tackle climate change and improve service delivery.
“Our report explores this pioneering Australian research and identifies areas where more evidence is needed to support climate and health policy.”
Drawing on the review’s findings, the National Health, Sustainability and Climate Unit will continue to work with bodies such as the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Medical Research Future Fund to help design well targeted grant opportunities.
The report is available on the Department of Health and Aged Care website here.
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