The Climate and Health Alliance is calling on the federal government to commit to a national climate-health plan, after a poll released today shows that 65% of Australian voters believe climate action will lead to personal health benefits.

The poll, released today by the Together We Can movement, surveyed 15,000 people across all 151 federal electorates on their views about climate change. A majority of voters in all electorates believe climate action will personally benefit their health.

“No matter if they’re from the city or the country, the coast or the outback, Australians want the same thing – good health for themselves and their family,” said Ms Fiona Armstrong, Executive Director of the Climate and Health Alliance.

“Climate action is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to ensure Australians have clean air, clean water and clean energy, leading to longer, healthier and more enjoyable lives.”

“This poll shows the government has strong community support to progress action on climate change, and this will deliver health and wellbeing benefits now, as well as climate benefits in the longer term,” said Ms Armstrong.

"We are calling on the federal government to commit to a national climate-health plan, to make this a reality," said Ms Armstrong.

More than 65 health organisations endorse CAHA’s Healthy, Regenerative and Just framework for a national strategy on climate, health and wellbeing for Australia.

CEO of the Public Health Association, Professor Terry Slevin said, “There are many public health benefits from urgent action on climate change, including fewer instances of harm from extreme heat, cleaner air and drinking water, and strengthening our food security."

“The health sector is ready to play its part in cutting its emissions. We urge the Australian Government to fund a national strategy that covers adaptation and mitigation efforts,” said Professor Slevin.

Climate and Health Alliance is the peak body of climate change and health in Australia, representing 90+ health sector organisations.

Together We Can is an initiative of the Australian Conservation Foundation to create a movement of people across Australia raising their voice for the solutions that will create meaningful climate action this decade.

Media contact: Remy Shergill, [email protected], 0423 075 895
Link to poll results