Core priorities
Clean air
Australia needs a Clean Air Act to protect the air we share from dangerous pollution.
Climate adaptation
Our health system needs to be resilient to the impacts of climate change so everyone can access care when they need it.
COP31
We are activating a regional coalition of health voices to call for ambitious action for our health at COP31.
Plastics
It’s time for a responsible plastics solution to reduce the harms of plastic and its use in healthcare.
Clean air
Everyone has the right to clean air. But across Australia, there are communities breathing in dangerous air pollution – whether from giant gas plants in Darwin, or coal-fired power stations in the Latrobe Valley, or diesel fumes near our city’s arterial roads.
We are working on:
- a healthy and equitable transition to renewable energy
- a federal Clean Air Act capable of protecting people from air pollution
- a healthier, cleaner and greener transport system
Our clean air work
Too Slow, Too Risky
An awareness campaign and Healthy Conversation discussing the health impacts of a delayed coal phase-out and nuclear future
End Coal Communications Guide
Communicating the health impacts of a delayed coal phase-out and nuclear future
Healthy Transport
Awareness campaign and petition for a healthier, cleaner and greener transport system
The right to clean air
This short film was screened at CAHA’s event at the 2025 Global Conference on Climate and Health in Brasília
Climate adaption
Our health system is on the frontline of the climate crisis, yet we are under-resourced to prepare and respond to the threat. Health-led climate adaptation is essential to ensure our hospitals, services and workforce are prepared and resilient.
By embedding a health lens in policy and investing in sustainable, climate-resilient healthcare systems, Australia can protect communities, reduce long-term costs, and deliver a stronger health system.
We are working on:
- Advocating for health-focused climate policy and dedicated funding for health system resilience
- Supporting education, training and workforce readiness for climate-resilient healthcare
- Helping health services reduce their environmental impact while providing high value care
Our climate adaptation work
Media releases:
COP31
COP31 is the biggest health opportunity of 2026. With Australia and Türkiye co-hosting, we have a unique opportunity to influence the negotiations and action agenda. There is incredible opportunity to advance a roadmap towards a decarbonised global economy, climate-resilient and sustainable healthcare systems worldwide, and justice for First Nations peoples and future generations.
We are working on:
- Educating the health sector about COP31
- Uniting health leaders around shared priorities
- Advocating to the President of Negotiations and his team to prioritise health sector concerns
Our COP31 work
Plastics
We need a responsible stewardship solution for plastics to reduce the harms of plastic. Through advocacy, research, and collaboration with health professionals and networks, we aim to build a health sector that minimises reliance on plastics while protecting human health. Some work has been delivered, while other initiatives are ongoing and need further support and funding.
We are working on:
- Advocacy for sustainable production, use and disposal of plastics
- Promoting stewardship schemes that empower clinicians and procurement staff
- Supporting the health workforce to reduce their plastic use through case studies, peer-to-peer learning and specialised support for sustainability staff
- Working with international allies to support global campaigns and the plastics treaty
