Year in Review 2010-11

Year in Review 2010–2011 The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth) is a statutory authority established by the Victorian Parliament in accordance with the Tobacco Act 1987. It has a mandate to promote good health for all Victorians. Promote shared community responsibility for Foster environments improving health and cultures that support health and wellbeing Deliver innovative programs in response to the social, economic, cultural and Develop new environmental factors knowledge and that influence health raise awareness of best practice in health promotion VicHealth works in partnership with communities, Invest in projects that organisations and individuals target the greatest to promote good health and preventable risk factors for ill health Collaborate with others prevent ill health. We do this in working with disadvantaged groups to reduce health a multitude of ways. inequalities Complement state government policy and programs, and national and international health Lead, support Influence promotion priorities and advocate for individuals’ behaviour excellence in the by supporting development of community health promoting awareness campaigns policies and programs

Our vision Our mission Our objectives VicHealth envisages a Our mission is to build the (as mandated by the Tobacco Act 1987) community where: capabilities of organisations, • To fund activity related to the • health is a fundamental communities and individuals promotion of good health, safety or human right in ways that: the prevention and early detection • everyone shares in the • change social, economic, of disease. responsibility for promoting cultural and physical • To increase awareness of programs health environments to improve for promoting good health in health for all Victorians • everyone benefits from the community through the improved health outcomes. • strengthen the sponsorship of sports, the arts and understanding and the popular culture. skills of individuals in ways • To encourage healthy lifestyles Cover image: Health promotion that support their efforts in the community and support actions and initiatives targeting to achieve and maintain activities involving participation in young people aim to develop the health. healthy pursuits. skills and actions necessary for • To fund research and development them to make positive health activities in support of these choices and achieve good health activities. now and in the future. Year in Review 2010–2011

Chair and CEO’s report 4 Our performance 6 Action in health priority areas 8 VicHealth Awards 34

3 Chair and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer’s report

Various developments this opportunities to improve the effective deterrent for young This has been a year year have opened up new health of Victorians. people considering taking up possibilities for VicHealth smoking. Within VicHealth, we have to drive and support change seen changes at the CEO and • Our research revealed from its unique vantage of significant change board levels. Following CEO low carbohydrate beer point as a locally based, Todd Harper’s departure drinkers mistakenly believe internationally recognised to head the Cancer Council these products are healthier in both the external leader in health promotion. Victoria, Associate Professor and will keep the kilos off – At a state level, the Health John Fitzgerald ably stepped and that they still binge as health promotion Minister The Hon. David into this role in the interim. much as other drinkers. We also saw a number of Davis MLC released The • VicHealth’s longstanding longstanding board members and illness prevention Victorian Health Priorities commitment to boosting leave after their terms of Framework 2012–2022, participation in physical appointment had expired, which will shape health activity is stronger than environments across and the appointment of a expectations and initiatives ever. Thirty State Sporting distinguished new board. across governments and Associations will share in Australia, and sectors in the state into the In the midst of these changes, almost $10.2 million over future, and will influence it has been very much business the next three years in a bid the development of the next as usual with staff continuing to make sports in Victoria also internally VicHealth strategic plan. to progress the objectives as more welcoming. outlined in our Strategy and The Victorian Government • We announced 484 Business Plan 2009–2013. within VicHealth. also released the Victorian Active Club Grants to Public Health and Wellbeing Highlights of our work assist smaller clubs to Plan 2011–2015, which takes in 2010–2011 include the buy essential sporting a high-level, cross-sector following: equipment, injury view of preventive health. In prevention equipment, • The Victorian Health addition to actions on health portable shade and Minister The Hon. David promotion, it describes the volunteer training, and the Davis MLC and VicHealth settings and partnerships for deadline and total fund are working with partners a coordinated approach to allocation for the grants including Quit Victoria and health and wellbeing. Notably, was extended to include the Municipal Association of the plan focuses on those who 387 clubs that were directly Victoria to move Victoria’s experience poorer health than affected by the devastating smokefree agenda forward. others. This plan reaffirms Victorian floods over the Tobacco smoking remains our direction and work on the previous summer. prevention agenda. one of the principal causes of death and disease in Victoria • As VicHealth community Nationally, this year has and across Australia. Many attitudes research revealed, seen the formation of the Victorian local councils Victorians want their fresh new Australian National have put the significant produce green, cheap and Preventive Health Agency. prevention initiative of local and are concerned Two former VicHealth CEOs smokefree outdoor dining about the impact of junk have been instrumental in its on their agenda, several food ads and marketing establishment – Dr Rhonda are already trialling this in schools and on TV. Our Galbally AO as transitional initiative, and more have partner, the Obesity Policy CEO and Professor Rob banned smoking near Coalition (OPC), unveiled Moodie as Deputy Chair of playgrounds and on beaches. their plan for legislation its Advisory Council. to protect children from • Australia is on the cusp unhealthy food advertising. We will work with the of introducing world-first National Agency to legislation requiring tobacco • A five-year local complement its work on companies to use plain government and VicHealth tackling chronic disease packaging. VicHealth has food security project Food caused by alcohol, obesity been a strong advocate for for All wrapped up and and smoking, to both avoid plain packaging and believes resources from what we duplication and to leverage its introduction will be an learned through the process 4 Jane Fenton, Chair (left) and Jerril Rechter, CEO

were distributed to all local attitudes towards women Cost-Effectiveness in VicHealth will soon be Jerril Rechter joined VicHealth councils in the state. A and inclusive sports with Prevention report contains undertaking a review of its as Chief Executive Officer on major piece of VicHealth the development of the 123 recommendations from priority areas in order to map 17 October 2011. She comes to research out of Melbourne Everyone Wins toolkit for a five-year review of all the out our work well beyond us from Leadership Victoria University examined the local sports clubs, which available evidence about 2013. The future for health and has extensive experience intricacies of Food Supply was launched by Minister what works to prevent promotion, reducing health in leadership across the areas Scenarios to 2060 for for Women’s Affairs The illness and the cost-benefits inequalities and achieving of arts, community and not- Victoria. We also produced Hon. Mary Wooldridge MP. of investing in those sustained health gains for all for-profit sectors. Jerril was a several reports designed to measures. Victorians is a challenging member of VicHealth’s Board • Reducing race-based get stakeholders thinking one, but there are great from 2004 to 2010. discrimination is a key • Finally, the joint VicHealth about food security at a opportunities ahead. We priority for VicHealth. In and Department of Health grassroots level. recognise that it is crucial June 2011, we launched our Indigenous health framework, for VicHealth to continue • We published a research See Beyond Race community Life is health is life, was report that shows excessive awareness campaign, which formally launched by Health to respond to current and pressure at work is costing ran to September 2011 on Minister The Hon. David emerging health promotion Australia’s economy $730 television, radio, billboards Davis MLC. This framework challenges with evidence, million a year due to job- and newspapers in the will be an important intelligence and integrity. stress related depression. Shepparton and Whittlesea component of addressing the We are also developing areas. This campaign is gap in Indigenous health in five workplace evidence designed to reduce racial years to come. reviews to form the building stereotyping. blocks for employers VicHealth could achieve to start thinking about • VicHealth’s Arts About Us nothing in isolation and we workplaces as a place to program to promote cultural would like to acknowledge Ms Jane Fenton, AM nurture good health, rather diversity and challenge our many partners for their Chair of the Board than a place that causes ill racial discrimination is now willingness to work with us health. We can now say with in full swing, with a range as well as the many state confidence that healthy of arts projects performing government departments workplaces are also good for across Victoria, including who engage with our work, the businesses’ bottom line. appearances at the 2011 especially the Department Melbourne International of Health. Ms Jerril Rechter • This period has been an Comedy Festival and Chief Executive Officer We pay tribute to the important time to mobilise Australia’s first all- outgoing board members who our stakeholders to join us Indigenous opera. in preventing violence made a great contribution to against women. VicHealth • Social isolation has been our work, to Todd Harper and and our local government strongly associated with John Fitzgerald, and to their partners hosted two forums increased death rates, very capable and dedicated with local governments and particularly from heart leadership team who ensured community leaders from disease and stroke. Our that the good work of the the western and eastern Technology, Arts and organisation continued regions of Melbourne. More Social Connection seamlessly. We thank all of Further reading than 300 people attended. (TASC) program is the VicHealth staff for their • Annual Report of Operations and Financial Statements In addition, we took a currently supporting 14 arts hard work and support over www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/annualreport leading role in Melbourne’s projects that creatively the last 12 months. • Lists of projects we funded in 2010–2011 premiere White Ribbon Day use information and Finally, we are grateful for www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/annualreport event Not 1 More, where communication technologies the support we have received comedian Dave Hughes to develop initiatives that • Strategy and Business Plan 2009–2013 over this year from the joined emergency and promote participation, social www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/strategic former Minister for Health, health services, unions, connection and community • Board of Governance for 2011–2012 Daniel Andrews, and from sports and entertainment engagement. www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/board the current Victorian Health stars to demand that ‘not • Advocacy ensued following Minister, The Hon. David • Advisory Committees one more’ woman becomes www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/committees the publication of a Davis MLC. We appreciate a victim of family violence. groundbreaking report into the tripartisan support for • Staff • We also continued our how health budgets could VicHealth, which remains one www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/staff work to foster positive be directed. The Assessing of its key strengths. 5 Our performance 2010–2011

$27,255,000 of our Victorian Government funding was invested in 798 grants in Victoria

Our reach We funded: • 22 local governments • 543 sporting organisations • 47 community organisations and NGOs • 31 tertiary education and research institutes • 11 health service organisations • 12 partnered investments with state government and statutory bodies

$10,494,000 was invested through sporting bodies (30.2%* of our appropriation) $16,761,000 was invested in other health promotion activity (48.2% of our appropriation) $6,101,000 was invested towards research and evaluation across our strategic priority areas (17.5% of our appropriation)

* The discrepancy between sports figures (see grant expenditure, next page) is because some of the work that occurs within the sports setting is not undertaken by sporting bodies. 6 Grant expenditure across target population groups

Whole-of-population Indigenous 10% approach 55% Grant expenditure Low SES 10% across settings

Geographic Sports 36%* disadvantage 5% People with Community 27% disabilities 5% New-arrival communities 7% Media 1% Children 8% Education 1% Arts 5%

Workplace 7%

Local government 7% Academic 16%

* The discrepancy between sports figures is because some of the work that occurs within the sports setting is not undertaken by sporting bodies.

On pages 8–33 you’ll find highlights from the past 12 months for each of our priority areas.

7 Action in health priority areas

1 Investing in health promotion knowledge 10 2 Reducing health inequalities 12 3 Increasing participation in physical activity 14 4 Increasing opportunities for social connection 16 Reducing race-based discrimination and 18 5 supporting cultural diversity 6 Preventing violence against women 20 Building knowledge in workplace 22 7 education and training 8 Creating environments that improve health 24 9 Promoting healthy eating 26 10 Reducing smoking 28 11 Reducing harm from alcohol 30 12 Reducing harmful UV exposure 32

8 Effective health promotion has the capacity to improve health, reduce the costs of treating chronic disease, enhance economic productivity, bridge the health divide between population groups, and add healthy years to life expectancy. The past year has seen many of VicHealth’s partnerships and investments deliver considerable outcomes. On the following pages you’ll find highlights from the past 12 months.

9 Collaborative research 19%

$1,116,000 Investigator-initiated research 29%

Evaluation 10% $1,771,000 Our annual investment in $615,000 research and evaluation activity is approximately $6.1 million.

Consolidated Survey Platform 10% Commissioned research 18% $640,000 $1,081,000

Funding of centres 14% $880,000

What we’ve done This year we worked in diverse ways to strengthen the public Partnership grants health research community by providing the evidence to As an industry partner, VicHealth supports researchers and inform and contribute to a healthy and productive Victoria. research organisations applying for grants from a range of Here are some highlights: funding bodies. This approach demonstrates our commitment Consolidated Survey Platform VicHealth began building to working collaboratively with individuals, groups and a consolidated survey platform to integrate our data on the organisations from many sectors. This year, several research social and economic determinants of health, health behaviours, projects were successful in receiving funding: attitudes and knowledge gaps. The centrepiece is the VicHealth • Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Grants Indicators Survey – a triennial local government area telephone This scheme is a federal government initiative that supports survey of 23,700 adult Victorians. The findings from these collaborative research projects between higher education powerful datasets will help guide our interventions. researchers and industry. This year, two joint research Innovation Grants Scheme This year, our Innovation Grants projects in partnership with VicHealth were successful in Scheme was listed on the Australian Competitive Grants receiving ARC funding: Dr Yin Paradies (The University of Register, which details schemes that provide competitive Melbourne) – Using bystander anti-racism to reduce race- research grants to higher education providers. Until now, based discrimination: Examining the frequency, potential, our scheme was open only to researchers based at Victorian benefits, facilitators and obstacles of bystander anti-racism; and not-for-profit organisations. Expanding and enhancing our Prof. Dan Lubman (Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre) research networks and collaboration offers significant potential – Alcohol and caffeinated energy drinks: Exploring patterns of for improving population health in Victoria as we draw on the consumption and associated harms. expertise of Australia’s most promising researchers. • Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Program This Conference Support Scheme Through this scheme, VicHealth highly competitive federal government scheme supports provided support to 10 conferences conducted by other providers. collaboration between researchers, industries, communities This scheme enables VicHealth to support organisations that are and governments to solve major challenges facing Australia. facilitating knowledge transfer in the field of health promotion Projects can run up to 10 years. This year was the first time and public health to inform, debate and educate. VicHealth has been involved in a CRC grant, and one project was successful: The Cooperative Research Centre for Young Healthy Australia: Public Support for Prevention Strategies People, Technology and Wellbeing. This is a big win for The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA), in public health. See p17 for more information. partnership with VicHealth, conducted an online survey of almost 3,000 Australians. Findings from the survey showed • National Health and Medical Research Council strong community support for government-led health promotion (NHMRC) Partnership Project Grants These grants strategies and increased spending on prevention activities. provide funding and support to create new opportunities for researchers and policymakers to not only work together Assessing Cost-Effectiveness in Prevention This five-year to define research questions and undertake research, but study by the National Health and Medical Research Council also to interpret and implement the findings. This year, (NHMRC) into more than 120 illness prevention measures one research project was successful in receiving NHMRC revealed the most cost-effective measures and smartest funding: Dr Sarah Durkin (Cancer Council Victoria) – Which ways to save lives in years to come. The report (funded types of emotions in anti-smoking ads motivate smokers to quit, by VicHealth and the PHAA) is the most comprehensive especially disadvantaged smokers? evaluation of illness prevention measures ever done anywhere in the world and is the perfect platform for leadership to improve health, reduce health inequalities and give better See the following pages for information on the research value for the health dollar. investments that specifically support our health priority areas. 10 VicHealth promotes health promotion activities that are evidence based. We derive evidence to support our strategic objectives by reviewing existing research and evaluation; funding external research; and implementing our own research and evaluation.

For a full list of our program investments in Investing in health promotion knowledge public health research, 1 go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

Incolink researcher Dr Karin du Plessis received funding from VicHealth to examine the dietary habits of young apprentice tradesmen.

Where we are headed • As part of our Consolidated Survey Platform project, VicHealth research fellows VicHealth is working with the Department of Health to VicHealth supports outstanding public health/health begin using InstantAtlas software to display indicators from promotion research by awarding five-year Public Health the 2011 VicHealth Indicators Survey. Reports on the health, Research Fellowships. These sought-after fellowships lifestyle and wellbeing of Victorians will be available to allow for longer-term research to be undertaken and each local government area, giving them easily retrievable are designed to attract and support high quality public data to identify priorities for action. health research talent in Victoria. For more information, go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/researchfellows • Work is underway to establish a VicHealth Ethics Committee, which will streamline our research processes and ensure that research practice is of the highest standard possible. 11 Health inequalities are related to disparities in access to the things we all need for good health, such as income, education, housing, and good living and working conditions. These determinants are largely beyond an individual’s control. That’s why VicHealth focuses on making changes in society to provide everybody with the opportunity to live a healthy life.

2 Reducing health inequalities

Doug Stevens and Lenis Lister: members of the Lakewood Cooperative Committee, which is elected by, and comprises, Lakewood residents.

For a full list of our program investments to reduce health inequalities, go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

12 What we’ve done Where we are headed This year our work has again focused on improving the health • VicHealth will launch the organisation’s first Indigenous of people from lower socio-economic groups, Indigenous Health Plan that, among other things, will identify priorities people, people from culturally diverse communities, and for future investment. people with disabilities – the population groups that do not • We are working in partnership with Surfing Victoria to experience the same health status that other Victorians enjoy. expand the Indigenous surfing program, which aims to Here are some highlights: create training and employment opportunities in the surfing Life is health is life: Taking action to close the gap Written by industry and other water-based activities for Indigenous VicHealth for the Victorian Government Department of Health, young people. this Victorian Aboriginal evidence-based health promotion • We will work with the Onemda VicHealth Koori Health resource brings together stories of promising health promotion Unit to appoint a senior research fellow to strengthen practice from across Victoria and a review of the scientific Onemda’s focus on the contribution of social and economic literature to guide health promotion policy and practice. 2 Reducing health inequalities factors to Indigenous health. The McCaughey Centre VicHealth provides ongoing support • We will contribute to the evidence base for housing and for this centre, which aims to build knowledge about the social health by publishing and disseminating new research, and economic determinants of community wellbeing and developing indicators to measure the health impact of mental health, with a focus on reducing health inequalities. housing interventions, and trialling the use of the indicators Australian National Development Index (ANDI) VicHealth by evaluating the Lakewood model (see box). has contributed to the development of ANDI, a new national • We will scope the issue of disability and health approach to measuring Australia’s progress and the wellbeing inequalities to create a framework for understanding and of the population based on issues identified as important to a resource to support health promotion action to address Australians through community consultation. health inequalities, based on the best available evidence. New arrival sport program VicHealth is supporting • We will develop a new health inequalities framework for Football Federation Victoria to promote diversity through its VicHealth that will outline the mechanisms through which operations and address barriers to participation in soccer for health inequalities are created in our society and guide the newly arrived communities and communities from the Horn of organisation’s approach to reducing inequalities in health Africa through the United Through Football program. status in the Victorian population. All of our health promotion programs seek to reduce health inequalities. See pp14 to 33 for information on our other program highlights.

VicHealth’s housing and health program Recognising the significant impact that housing has on health and wellbeing, VicHealth is supporting the ongoing development of Lakewood Housing Cooperative in Ringwood. Lakewood is the first vertical (high rise) community of its kind in Australia and aims to create a strong and sustainable community of social housing residents. Common Equity Housing Ltd (CEHL) and partner organisation Eastern Access Community Health invested significantly in the community development aspect of the housing model well in advance of residents moving into the building. This is also unique. VicHealth funding is now contributing to the continuation of this community development with Lakewood residents. VicHealth is also funding the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) to evaluate the potential benefits of the Lakewood model in terms of the health and wellbeing of the residents. Many housing interventions have not measured health and wellbeing impact, so we will be making a significant contribution to the evidence base in the housing and health sectors.

13 What we’ve done Where we are headed This year we again worked with different sectors at national, • We will undertake research exploring parental fear as a state, regional and local levels to encourage participation in barrier to children’s independent mobility and consequent sport and active recreation to improve health and wellbeing. physical activity. Here are some highlights: • We will develop an evidence-informed Physical Activity State Sporting Association Participation Program Participation Framework to guide future practice, 2011–2013 30 State Sporting Associations are sharing in programs and policies to increase participation. almost $10.2 million over three years from VicHealth in a bid • VicHealth, in partnership with Sport and Recreation to make sports in Victoria more welcoming. Beyond simply Victoria, YMCA and Playgroup Australia – Victoria encouraging more people to play, the new grants aim to bring branch, will facilitate a series of forums and discussions about sustainable organisational and cultural change. featuring Tim Gill, one of the UK’s leading thinkers Active Club Grants 484 sports clubs in Victoria received on childhood. The focus will be on how to balance funding to purchase essential equipment, fund training of protection of children and provide opportunities to volunteers and purchase injury prevention equipment and expand their physical, emotional and social skills. portable shade through VicHealth’s annual Active Club • A comprehensive evaluation of the organisational Grants round. Priority was given to assisting people in flood- change outcomes of the State Sporting Association affected communities, junior clubs, Indigenous communities, Participation Program will commence. people with a disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Sport and active recreation • We will review Victoria Walks (which encourages more clubs and organisations in rural and low socio-economic areas people to walk more often) to determine possible future were also a priority for funding. funding commitments and key recommendations to increase walking access and participation. Let’s Get Moving 2: inspiring better practice VicHealth facilitated this symposium, which brought together more than • We will conduct the third annual Let’s Get Moving 200 attendees from across the sport and active recreation symposium, presenting key findings from the sector, government and universities to share knowledge PICSAR program. and translate findings from work undertaken in VicHealth’s • We will develop a new funding program to increase Participation in Community Sport and Active Recreation active recreation participation in partnership with local (PICSAR) program (see box). government. Everyone Wins Developed through a collaboration of sport, • We will work closely with key sporting bodies as government, education and community organisations, this they undertake in-depth work designed to increase comprehensive toolkit reflects best practice in the areas of participation of particular priority population groups sport and inclusion. It will be piloted through VicHealth’s (approximately $3 million over three years). AFL Victoria State Sporting Association Participation Program 2011–2013 will focus on women; Football Federation Victoria will and Healthy Sporting Environments Demonstration Project to focus on culturally and linguistically diverse communities; determine its effectiveness to increase participation through Surfing Victoria will work with Indigenous communities; the development of safe, accessible, inclusive and equitable and Basketball Victoria will work with people with sporting environments. disabilities. Healthy Sporting Environments Demonstration Project • We will trial education and training with the Everyone Sports clubs throughout the greater Barwon region are set to Wins toolkit (see left) with State Sporting Associations become the healthiest in Australia by focusing on a range of and local sports clubs. standards to create healthier clubs. Actions within clubs will focus on responsible use of alcohol, healthy eating, reduced tobacco use, sun protection, sports injury prevention, creating safe and inclusive environments for women, and reducing race- based discrimination. In an Australian first, VicHealth teamed Participation in Community Sport and Active up with regional sports assembly Leisure Networks to pilot the Recreation (PICSAR) $2 million 21/2-year program, which involves 78 sporting clubs VicHealth’s PICSAR program provided funding from 2007 to across a diverse range of codes. For a full description of this 2011 for initiatives that aimed to increase participation, build project, see p25. skills and address health inequalities. The program has had a very positive impact on promoting and supporting inclusion in the sport and active recreation sector. Cricket Victoria is one of more than 60 organisations funded by VicHealth through PICSAR. Its ‘Cricket4Me’ program won a VicHealth award this year (see p46). To read more PICSAR success stories, go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/picsar-success-stories

References 1. Begg S, Vos T, Barker B, Stevenson C, Stanley L & Lopez A, 2007. The burden of disease and injury in Australia 2003. AIHW cat. No. PHE 82, Canberra. 14 For a full list of our program investments to increase participation in physical activity, go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

Regular physical activity is ranked second only to tobacco control as the most important factor in preventing chronic disease in Australia.1 That’s why VicHealth advocates for and 1 Investingsupports change in health that makes promotion everyday knowledge living more active. 2 Reducing health inequalities 3 Increasing participation in physical activity

Sport is a universal language that can bring people together, no matter what their origin, background, religious beliefs or economic status.

15 Belonging and being connected and engaged in group and civic activities are intrinsic to good mental health and wellbeing. Social isolation is associated with stress, anxiety, depression and increased death rates, particularly from heart disease and stroke.1,2 To improve health, VicHealth supports initiatives that increase opportunities for participation and social connection.

For a full list of our program investments to increase opportunities for social connection, 4 Increasing opportunities for social connection go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport What we’ve done 18 months. Through 14 arts and community evaluation and assessment organisations to design This year we continued of those projects, we aim activities that build social Office of Melbourne’s to invest in programs and to strengthen the evidence connection through research that build people’s Schools as Core Social about the health benefits engagement with the digital Centres program has skills, self efficacy and ability of participating in arts environment. (See p40 to connect with others in seen the full integration activities. for details of the Museum of this program into the their community; increase a Victoria project that won a Localities Enhancing Arts Catholic education system. sense of group belonging and VicHealth award this year.) purpose; and encourage civic Participation (LEAP) The learnings from this engagement and voice on program This three-year The Book Well Program sustainable model will important issues. Highlights program with three local In 2009 we supported the be transferable to other this year include: governments aims to Get Into Reading Program, educational systems. strengthen the organisations, a collaborative initiative Heartlands Refugee Art Action plan for building networks, partnerships, between the State Library health through arts Prize This prestigious art resources and events that are of Victoria, the Public prize celebrates the creative and new media Building able to facilitate participation Libraries Victoria Network on good work requires contribution refugees bring in – and sustain – arts and and VicHealth. Based on a to the Victorian community. a framework and a plan, cultural activities. It is being UK program, it promotes the which is why VicHealth Finalists were showcased implemented by Mildura participation of people from at an exhibition during the launched its action plan for Rural City Council, the City diverse and disadvantaged improving health through Emerge Festival, which of Casey and Ballarat City backgrounds in a reading coincided with Refugee social connection and Council. Additionally, we group to improve their sense participation. It outlines Week. As part of the have partnered with the of group belonging and capacity building component VicHealth’s strategies University of Melbourne’s literacy. The program (now for building mental and of the project, the first School of Population Health called Book Well) is run by prize winner has started physical health and wellbeing to engage a research leader to trained group readers and through arts, new media and her residency at Werribee evaluate the LEAP program. being expanded to different Park and will have a solo technology activities institutional locations Technology, Arts & Social exhibition at Point Nepean in 2010–2013. including public libraries. Connection program National Park. Now in its There will be a deeper MOTION pilot program VicHealth is exploring the second year, this Art Prize is evaluation of the outcome This new program explores potential of technology presented by AMES (Adult for participants. how arts and physical to increase participation Migrant Education Services) activity can be combined and create innovative Schools as Core Social and Multicultural Arts to build social connection. opportunities for social Centres The final stage Victoria in partnership with VicHealth selected seven connection. This new of VicHealth’s partnership VicHealth, Parks Victoria projects to support over program is supporting with the Catholic Education and South East Water. 16 Melbourne Fringe Festival staff rehearsing for Crowd Play, an outdoor song and dance project supported by VicHealth and designed to get audiences involved in the festival. (For more information about the festival, go to www.melbournefringe.com.au)

Where we are headed • In the spirit of true collaboration, VicHealth is one of 13 essential partners of the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Young People, Technology and Wellbeing, comprising 64 agencies. Through an international research agenda, and by engaging young people at key stages, this centre will collect data, build knowledge, and develop tools and resources for end users, which will enhance the mental health and wellbeing of young people. • Civic engagement is about having ideas, opinions and input into issues that affect our daily lives. As an important component of being socially connected VicHealth is scoping the role of technology and new media in developing social connection. We will draw our funded projects into an online town-hall style environment to drive rich communication and greater participation in our communities. • We will distil and consolidate learnings from a range of VicHealth projects to build new opportunities, tools and resources to address social connection through technology, physical activity, local government planning and other sectors. • We are funding the Australian School of Performing Arts to engage refugee and newly arrived migrants in performing arts activities and to develop a scholarship program that will enhance connection, network development and bridging capital for participants.

References 1. Bunker SJ, Colquhoun DM, Esler MD, et al, 2003. ‘Stress’ and coronary heart disease: psychosocial risk factors. National Heart Foundation of Australia position statement update, MJA 178(6): 272–276. 2. Barefoot JC, Grønbæk M, Jensen G, Schnohr P & Prescott E, 2005 (15 May). Social Network Diversity and Risks of Ischemic Heart Disease and Total Mortality: Findings from the Copenhagen City Heart Study. Am. J. Epidemiol, 161(10): 960-967, doi: 10.1093/aje/kwi128 17 A. MICROBIOLOGIST B. AVID GARDENER C. MOTHER OF THREE D. ALL OF THE ABOVE See beyond race.

VicHealth’s See Beyond Race campaign featured local people and their real-life interests, including Shepparton resident Fatima Al-Qarakchy (pictured).

For a full list of our program investments to reduce race-based Reducing race-based discrimination discrimination and 5 support cultural diversity, and supporting cultural diversity go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

Social cohesion and a ‘fair go’ for all are important for healthy people and communities. Valuing Victoria’s cultural diversity and Aboriginal heritage and making sure our communities and organisations are free from race-based discrimination are key steps in achieving this. Exposure to discrimination is linked with poor health, especially poor mental health.1 For these reasons, VicHealth works with the wider community to support diversity and reduce race-based discrimination.

18 What we’ve done Where we are headed This year we again worked to raise awareness of the problem • Since VicHealth and its partners released the and prevalence of race-based discrimination, increase Building on our strengths framework, which synthesises knowledge about the health, social and economic impacts, the current evidence and knowledge base, there has been and work with a range of partners to trial new approaches increasing interest from all levels of government. VicHealth and build skills and knowledge to reduce it. Our work – is well placed to support the Victorian Government’s which focuses on how we all respond to cultural diversity implementation of the Multicultural Victoria Act 2011 and – complements existing discrimination legislation and other to contribute to the national anti-racism strategy to be programs that provide direct support to those affected by developed by the Australian Government. discrimination and disadvantage. Here are some highlights: A. MICROBIOLOGIST • We will be sharing the lessons learned from and the Local government programs resources developed in the LEAD sites with a wider range of local governments and others so that promising See Beyond Race campaign Featuring local people and B. AVID GARDENER approaches can be replicated elsewhere. their real-life interests, this was the first Australian social marketing campaign to reduce race-based discrimination • The Victorian Office of Multicultural Affairs & Citizenship C. MOTHER OF THREE conducted alongside an intensive community education and VicHealth will support the Reconciling Divided program across a localised geographic area. The campaign Communities Project designed to bring together leaders of D. ALL OF THE ABOVE was a partnership between VicHealth, the Victorian Equal communities affected by conflict in order to increase mutual Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, the City of understanding and respect. Whittlesea and the Greater Shepparton City Council. It is part • We will build on the initial More Than Tolerance survey of VicHealth’s broader Localities Embracing and Accepting (conducted in 2006) by focusing on experiences of race- See beyond race. Diversity (LEAD) pilot program to prevent discrimination based discrimination and community attitudes towards race and support cultural diversity within local communities, which and cultural diversity in Victoria. is also being funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and beyondblue. Participating councils are working • We are supporting the Shepparton-based Aboriginal with local workplaces, retail operators, sporting clubs and organisation, the Rumbalara Football and Netball Club, schools to strengthen policies and cultures to minimise unfair to film the story of the establishment of the club and the treatment and ensure that cultural diversity is valued. sporting and other achievements of its members and take these to a wide audience. Arts programs • We will encourage and support people to take action on Arts About Us Through the Arts About Us program witnessing intolerance and discrimination (when it is safe (www.artsaboutus.com.au) we are funding 18 projects to and constructive to do so) by strengthening the positive open up conversations about the benefits of cultural diversity role of the bystander. and the harmful impacts on health and wellbeing caused by race-based discrimination. Arts About Us offers myriad • The evaluation of the Building Bridges scheme will soon ways for people to be entertained, get involved and, most be released. The scheme involved community groups importantly, think about race-based discrimination and its promoting cultural diversity through positive contact impacts. One of these projects – Museum Victoria’s ‘Identity: and cooperation between people from a range of ethnic yours, mine, ours/Talking Difference’ – won a VicHealth award backgrounds, including those of Anglo-Australian heritage. this year (see p40). • Recognising that workplaces can promote healthy and Research respectful cultures in the broader community, we are developing workplace programs to prevent race-based Freedom of religious belief research report VicHealth discrimination and promote acceptance of diversity as part of conducted an investigation into the effects that freedom of our Creating Healthy Workplaces program (see p22). religion and belief can have on individual health and community wellbeing, and whether discriminating against people on the • In addition, we are developing a short course that will grounds of their religion contributes to poor health. increase the capacity of key workforces to plan and implement activity to reduce discrimination and support diversity. Aboriginal young people Racism has been identified as a determinant of health but few studies have explored associations between racism and health outcomes for Australian Aboriginal young people in urban areas. This VicHealth-funded research This program – focusing on how we all respond to cultural examined the health effects of racism among Aboriginal people diversity – complements other VicHealth programs: aged 12–26 years living in Melbourne. It found that more than reducing health inequalities (p12), increasing participation in 50% of all participants had experienced racism and that this was sports and physical activity (p15), increasing opportunities linked with a poor sense of wellbeing. for social connection (p16), and building knowledge in workplace education and training (p22). In these areas, McCaughey Centre We are funding a program of research work with Indigenous Australians and culturally diverse at the University of Melbourne’s McCaughey Centre that communities themselves is being supported. is dedicated to supporting our program development and increasing our understanding of race-based discrimination and acceptance of diversity. Other research projects We are supporting a range of research projects that are exploring the following topics: the economic costs of racism; the role of parental socialisation References in children’s response to racism; the impact of racism on child 1. Paradies Y 2006, ‘A systematic review of empirical research health; and the health benefits of a climate in which diversity on self reported racism and health’, International Journal of is valued. Epidemiology, vol. 35, pp. 888–901. 19 What we’ve done This year VicHealth worked in • Respect and Equity • Partners in Prevention Preventing Violence Against partnership with government, Maribyrnong City Council Network The Domestic Women Short Course local councils, community works across all internal Violence Resource Centre VicHealth conducted a two- and health services, the sections and departments Victoria has developed a day course in several regions sport and recreation sector, of council to integrate network for professionals of Victoria with practitioners workplaces and women’s prevention of violence working in prevention with from local government, health, health organisations. against women into policy, schools and young people. community and other sectors. The network connects Our program of research, programs and planning. The short course provides the practitioners across Victoria community strengthening, Maribyrnong also works with training, tools and resources and promotes best practice organisational development the local community to raise for on-the-ground workers to in respectful relationships and advocacy is focused awareness and influence plan, implement and evaluate education. on building evidence and attitudes and behaviour evidence-based strategies promoting best practice in towards women. Local Government and to prevent violence against women. For a full description primary prevention. Here are • Northern Interfaith Community Leaders’ of the short course, see p22. some highlights: Respectful Relationships Conference 2010 More Project Darebin City than 250 Australian and Love: the good, the Respect, Responsibility international community and Equality program Council is working with faith bad and the ugly A new leaders across the northern leaders met in Melbourne website was created for VicHealth has supported the to discuss the role of local region of Melbourne to young people to answer the development of in-depth councils and communities in build peer mentoring awkward questions about prevention programs in addressing violence against models and promote sex, relationships, abuse, workplaces, local councils, women. The conference was respectful relationships sexual harassment and online faith communities, and health the largest gathering of local across congregations and interactions in the digital age. and community organisations. government representatives communities. The website is an initiative We are supporting the and decision makers ever of the Domestic Violence development and evaluation • Take a Stand: Domestic held in Australia with a focus Resource Centre Victoria of new activity through Violence is Everyone’s on violence against women. and VicHealth through five long-term partnership Business Women’s Health The event was organised the Partners in Prevention projects: Victoria has developed a by VicHealth and Darebin City Council, with support Network. • Baby Makes 3 Whitehorse comprehensive workplace from the Victorian Office of Community Health Service program to address Not 1 More VicHealth worked Women’s Policy. A series of has developed a group violence against women. with a range of partners to regional events was also held work program for first-time The Take a Stand program support Melbourne’s premiere for local leaders. parents, assisting them enables workplaces to take White Ribbon Day event to maintain healthy and leadership, provide training Fair Game: Respect Matters Not 1 More. The event calls respectful relationships and promote messages of We continued our partnership on all Victorians to demand during the transition to respect in their organisation. with AFL Victoria to develop that ‘not one more’ woman parenthood. This project safe, respectful and inclusive becomes a victim of family won a VicHealth award this environments for girls and violence. year (see p50). women in community football clubs in Victoria.

VicHealth’s key strategy to prevent violence against women is to build more equal and respectful relationships between women and men at every level of society.

20 Where we are headed Intimate partner violence is more • We will translate learnings from our Respect, Responsibility and Equality damaging to the health of Victorian program (see p20) into a range of tools, resources and guidelines to enable more women aged 15 to 44 years than any other organisations to undertake best practice primary prevention activities. well-known risk factor, including high 1 • We are undertaking research to build blood pressure, obesity and smoking. our bystander program and better understand what motivates Victorians to intervene in support of preventing violence VicHealth focuses on preventing violence against women. against women before it occurs by • We will support La Trobe University to evaluate the AFL Respect and promoting respectful relationships and Responsibility program and highlight the most effective strategies to support non-violent cultures within families, cultural change in major sporting organisations. organisations and communities. • We are supporting researchers at the University of Melbourne to investigate trends in the portrayal of violence against women in news and print media. This research will provide an insight into the ways that media reporting can be improved in Australia. • As part of the Creating Healthy Workplaces program, we are undertaking a major project to build more equal and respectful relationships between women and men at work. For a full description, see p22. For a full list of our program investments to prevent violence against women, go to 6 Preventing violence against women www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

References 1. VicHealth 2004. The health costs of violence: measuring the burden of disease caused by intimate partner violence. Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, Melbourne. 21 Participating in school, work and training enhances health and wellbeing.1,2 That’s why VicHealth funds projects designed to increase people’s access to these opportunities and improve the quality of working conditions, education and skills through training.

What we’ve done Estimating the economic Ganbina Indigenous benefits of eliminating School-to-Work project The workplace as a health Workplaces play an job strain This research This VicHealth-funded important part in building looked at the costs project continued to exceed promotion environment good health, which is why associated with workplace expectations with its highly Workplaces are an important our program and research stress and found that job successful placement and environment for health action and activity has been focused on strain (where workers have retention of Aboriginal improvement. VicHealth identifies this setting. Here are some little control over their job, students in schools, training the workplace as a priority setting highlights: but are under high pressure and employment. VicHealth in its Strategy and Business Plan Creating Healthy to perform) accounts has worked with Ganbina 2009–2013 because: Koori Economic Employment Workplaces program This for 17% of depression in • Employment and working conditions & Training Agency and program comprises two working women and 13% in are important social determinants The RE Ross Trust to parts. The first component working men. This study of health. There is strong evidence secure ongoing funding to collected international was funded by VicHealth linking fair, safe and secure strengthen the model. evidence into reviews about and conducted by the employment arrangements with University of Melbourne’s the following health areas: METEOR This VicHealth- good health. Conversely, poor School of Population Health, funded project, based on a job security and conditions are 1. Preventing race-based McCaughey Centre, and the Finnish workability model to associated with poor health. discrimination and Menzies Research Institute, retain and retrain aged care supporting cultural Tasmania. • Workplaces play a critical role in workers in employment, is in diversity the health of society. The workplace its fifth and final year. The VicHealth Short Course directly influences the physical, 2. Preventing violence work promotes productivity program Since 2004, mental, economic and social against women and in an ageing workforce VicHealth has delivered a wellbeing of employees, and in building equal and and has engaged a large unique model of training to turn the health of their families, respectful relationships number of partners from develop health promotion communities and society. between men and women employment, philanthropic, skills across diverse Effective workplace health corporate and the aged 3. Reducing alcohol-related sectors and settings in the promotion can therefore result sectors, both nationally and harm community. Our short course in a multitude of beneficial internationally. has now been delivered to outcomes across all levels. 4. Reducing prolonged sitting over 2,000 organisations in 5. Reducing workplace stress Victoria, NSW, Queensland Where we are headed • The workplace provides an ideal and New Zealand and has setting and infrastructure to The second component been expanded to address a We will translate and support the promotion of health to a will design and implement range of health issues including disseminate findings from large audience. Approximately two- interventions that address preventing violence against the Creating Healthy thirds of working age Australians are the above five health issues women, reducing race-based Workplaces program and in paid work – many spending up to in the workplace. Ultimately discrimination and supporting develop resources which will a third of every day at work. we want this program to diversity for health, and enhance the implementation enhance workplace health creating welcoming sports of good practice across promotion research, policy environments. To strengthen workplaces in the areas of and practice in Victoria. See the uptake and sustainability race-based discrimination, boxed text opposite for more of these courses, we developed violence against women, information. complementary courses alcohol-related harm, specifically for executive prolonged sitting and managers and CEOs. workplace stress.

References 1. Bond L, Butler H, Thomas L, Carlin J, Glover S, Bowes G & Patton G, 2007. Social and School Connectedness in Early Secondary School as Predictors of Late Teenage Substance Use, Mental Health, and Academic Outcomes, Journal of Adolescent Health, Volume 40, Issue 4, pp 357.e9–357e.18. 2. Creed PA, Machin MA, Hicks RE. Improving mental health status and coping abilities for long-term unemployed youth using cognitive-behaviour therapy based training interventions. J Organiz Behav 1999; 20: 963–978. 22 For a full list of our program investments to build knowledge Building knowledge in workplace in workplace 7 education and training, education and training go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

Reducing prolonged sitting in the workplace is one of five areas of focus for VicHealth’s Creating Healthy Workplaces program. 23 Our local environment drives many of our actions. It determines our capacity to be healthy and maintain good health in both subtle and overt ways.

For a full list of our program investments to create environments Creating environments that improve health that improve health, 8 go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport Behavioural risk factors for chronic disease are shaped not only by individual preferences but by built, social, natural and economic environments. VicHealth collaborates with a range of partners to ensure health is factored into our future environments.

24 What we’ve done Where we are headed This year we have continued Selandra Rise housing • We are interested in to work with a diverse range development Our built investigating the links of partners, including local environment work has between air quality government, the sport focused on the new growth and health outcomes to and recreation sector and area developments of determine if there are any community organisations. Melbourne, where we are socially mediated solutions Highlights include: aiming to embed health to air pollution problems, promotion in the statutory as well as exploring Healthy Sporting planning process. We opportunities to influence Environments have funded a research health in recreational Demonstration Project practice fellow to evaluate outdoor spaces. This $2 million, 21/2-year the effectiveness of the demonstration project Selandra Rise Stockland • We will contribute to the involves 78 sporting clubs property development of development of liveable across a diverse range of 1132 residential lots in the communities in Greater codes throughout the greater City of Casey. Selandra Rise Geelong’s Armstrong Barwon region. The project is the result of an innovative Creek growth area, which aims to create environmental partnership between will provide physical and and socio-cultural change by Stockland, the City of Casey, social infrastructure at supporting sporting clubs to the Planning Institute of an early stage, rather attain minimum standards Australia, the Growth Areas than just releasing land in six areas of health/club Authority and VicHealth. for development. In development: responsible The aim is to create a healthy particular, we will share our use of alcohol; healthy and engaged community knowledge about creating food choices; reduced by promoting physical sporting environments tobacco use; protection activity and active transport, that are safe, accessible, from harmful effects of UV; and encouraging social inclusive and equitable. creation of an inclusive, interaction. This project won • We will develop a safe and supportive a VicHealth award this year framework to guide environment for women, (see p38). future practice, programs girls, Indigenous people and policies to create and people from culturally Food sustainability environments that improve diverse backgrounds; and through planning and health. injury prevention and design We completed two management. Successful workshops with ARUP initiatives tested by clubs (environmental and planning will help to form a model consultants) to investigate for implementation across how food sustainability Victoria, in partnership could be embedded into the See the following pages with other Regional Sports planning and design of new for information on our Assemblies. communities. work to create safer social, physical and economic environments 8 Creating environments that improve health relating to healthy eating (p26), tobacco (p28), alcohol (p30) and UV exposure (p32).

25 Healthy eating is essential for good physical and mental health, which is why VicHealth invests in programs and research to increase the accessibility, affordability and sustainability of healthy food and create a culture that supports the consumption of healthy foods.

The key to supporting healthy eating throughout the community is to ensure everybody has access to a variety of affordable, culturally appropriate, nutritious foods.

For a full list of our program investments to 9 Promoting healthy eating promote healthy eating, go to www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

26 What we’ve done This year VicHealth development of resources Healthy Sporting Where we are headed continued to provide expert to assist local government Environments • VicHealth is supporting advice to guide policy in advancing future work Demonstration Project a demonstration project and regulation, invested in this area. The project to Through this program, scoping the local food in research to further disseminate these Food for which involves 78 clubs in supply in the City of understand the barriers to All learnings won a VicHealth the greater Barwon region, Casey, which will focus on healthy eating, and funded award this year (see p48). VicHealth is supporting the types of interventions projects that support the initiatives to improve healthy required to change the Victorian Food Supply development of environments food choices in sporting scale of activity and Scenarios VicHealth funded that encourage healthy eating. environments. For a full viability of local and Melbourne University Highlights include: description of this project, regional food distribution researchers to examine the see p25. systems. Protecting children from intricacies of food supply unhealthy advertising The scenarios to 2060 for Consumers’ views of • We have commissioned Obesity Policy Coalition Victoria. The Australian- fruit and vegetable the Centre for Health (OPC) released the first first research has built an policy options Research Economics at Monash Australian plan for legislation evidence base for examining by VicHealth and Deakin University to analyse that offers real protection for how cumulative changes University showed that data on the purchasing children from unhealthy food in complex modern food Victorians want their fresh of sugar sweetened advertising – one of the key systems can have an impact produce green, cheap and beverages, which will drivers of childhood obesity. on the food that ends up on local and are concerned underpin a campaign As well as overwhelming our tables. It is vital research about the impact of junk to raise community public support for reform, that will ultimately inform food ads and marketing in awareness about healthier the initiatives in the blueprint food policy so that fresh, schools and on TV. The alternatives. have been endorsed by a host nutritious food is available study of 500 Victorians of public health organisations. for everyone. The project revealed overwhelming • Through various research The Parents’ Jury, supported was a collaboration between public support for more grants we are investigating by VicHealth and other VicHealth, the Victorian farmers’ markets, increases food security; parental leading health organisations, Eco-Innovation Lab in local production of fruit influences on food also campaigned strongly for (VEIL), the CSIRO, Deakin and vegetables, monitoring choices; policy options for reforms. (The OPC won a University and the Victorian large supermarket chains to reducing obesity; and the VicHealth award this year, Department of Planning and keep prices competitive and environmental and cultural see p42.) Community Development. creating community fruit and determinants of obesity. vegetable gardens. OPC partners include Diabetes Food-sensitive planning and • We are engaging with the 9 Promoting healthy eating Australia (Vic), Cancer urban design This important The Food Alliance Victorian Aboriginal Council Victoria, the WHO report gives practical advice VicHealth supported expert Community Controlled Collaborating Centre for Obesity to local government planners, and community voices Health Organisation to Prevention at Deakin University architects, urban designers, through our investment in develop healthy eating and VicHealth. engineers, policymakers, The Food Alliance, which policies and innovative community members and sits within the Food Policy implementation strategies, Food for All VicHealth has elected representatives Unit at Deakin University such as healthy catering helped to strengthen the on how to incorporate and develops policies and guidelines and workplace role of local government sustainable food production legislation that improve the healthy eating policies. authorities in promoting into urban design. The Heart food and agriculture system food security as a public Foundation commissioned in Victoria. health issue. This year, David Lock Associates and Food for All, the five-year the Victorian Eco-Innovation local government and Lab (VEIL) at the University VicHealth food security of Melbourne to develop the project, wrapped up and the resource with partial funding evaluation report led to the from VicHealth.

27 What we’ve done Where we are headed VicHealth is at the forefront the advocacy for nicotine • VicHealth will continue its of research, advocacy and replacement therapy (NRT) support of Quit’s increased program development in patches to be subsidised efforts todecrease the anti-smoking arena. for Australians through the smoking prevalence VicHealth is a key partner of Pharmaceutical Benefits amongst smokers in the Victorian Government Scheme. For the first time it is low socio-economic in the implementation of its cheaper to quit than smoke. groups as well as highly Tobcacco Control Strategy Quit predicts that this will disadvantaged smokers. 2008–2013 and a major result in an additional 96,000 This will require a focus funder of both Quit Victoria quitters in the first five years, on people suffering from and the VicHealth Centre 31,000 premature deaths mental health issues, for Tobacco Control at the avoided, and $54 billion in tax people in/exiting Victoria’s Cancer Council Victoria. payer savings.1 This project prison system, Indigenous Highlights this year include: won a VicHealth award this people in Victoria, and year (see p44). pregnant women from Plain packaging for highly disadvantaged areas. tobacco products In Quit campaign For the first partnership with Quit time, Quit unveiled a public • With VicHealth’s support, and other leading health awareness campaign aimed at Quit will work with and organisations, VicHealth was encouraging smokers to give engage schools in low instrumental in engendering quitting another go, rather socio-economic status public and political support than using graphic images areas to ensure that for legislation for plain of tobacco harms. The new students have access to packaging for tobacco approach of the ‘Never give anti-smoking mass social products. VicHealth and the up giving up’ campaign was marketing through school Public Health Association of well received by smokers and programs and curricula Australia (PHAA) also called non-smokers alike. activities, and cessation on governments to legislate support through health Healthy Sporting for complete bans on all programs in schools. Environments tobacco industry advertising Demonstration Project • VicHealth will continue and force tobacco Through this program, to support national companies to release full which involves 78 clubs in level tobacco policy details of lobbying, political the greater Barwon region, reform, including the donations and marketing VicHealth is supporting implementation of the plans and budgets. initiatives to reduce tobacco plain packaging of tobacco Nicotine replacement use in sporting environments. products and national anti- therapy subsidised For a full description of this smoking campaigns. VicHealth supported Quit’s project, see p25. efforts to successfully lead

Plain packaging of tobacco products Reduced Plain packaging of tobacco products will remove Victorian the last opportunity for the tobacco industry to smoking rates promote its product directly to consumers, given the Smoking rates continue bans on advertising and promotion at point of sale to decline, with 15.3% already in place. Research shows that smokers have of Victorian adults now strong brand loyalty and make repeat purchases of regularly smoking, down particular tobacco products. This will be eroded by from 18.3% in 2005. the introduction of plain packaging. Victorian secondary Research also shows that plain packaging will reduce school students’ the appeal of smoking to young people, reduce smoking rates have deception around the harmfulness of cigarettes and also declined.2 These strengthen the impact of graphic health warnings. findings put Victorian Australia will be a world leader in tobacco control if adult smoking rates legislation to introduce plain cigarette packaging is within reach of the passed in the Senate. The legislation, if successful 13.8% target set for in the Upper House, will mean all tobacco products 2013 by the Victorian will have to be sold in olive-brown packets in a bid to Government. reduce smoking rates to below 10%. This legislation will put Australia ahead of the world in public health efforts to stop people smoking.

28 In Victoria, smoking costs around 4,000 lives and $5 billion every year.3 Though much progress has been made, smoking remains the leading preventable cause of many cancers and respiratory, cardiovascular and other diseases. VicHealth was set up specifically to reduce tobacco harm and has been investing in this area for over 20 years.

For a full list of our program investments to reduce smoking, go to 10 Reducing smoking www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport Quit’s new positive campaign encourages people to never give up quitting.

References 1. Quit Victoria, Tobacco Control Unit Review 2011. 2. Ibid. 3. The Cancer Council Victoria 2005, The Tobacco Tragedy: Deaths caused by smoking in Victoria 1999–2013, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne.

29 What we’ve done This year VicHealth has as much as other drinkers. alcohol or non-alcoholic National Alliance for strengthened efforts to reduce The results of the national drinks at certain matches Action on Alcohol (NAAA) alcohol-related harm, including survey to measure attitudes during the 2010 final series. The NAAA is a national acting on policy regulation, and behaviours of low carb VicHealth evaluated these coalition of more than inducing cultural change, and beer drinkers were released initiatives and is using the 50 health and community gathering further evidence in the lead-up to the festive results to develop a larger organisations, including on effective strategies to season. scale program in this area. VicHealth, who are pooling reduce harm from alcohol. their expertise to address Healthy Sporting Alcopops drinking down Highlights include: Australia’s drinking Environments The Alcohol Policy Coalition problems. VicHealth led the Demonstration Project (of which VicHealth is Health warnings on development of NAAA’s Through this program, a member) welcomed alcohol labels Previously position statement: Reducing which involves 78 clubs in Australian Bureau of released figures from harm from alcohol – creating a the greater Barwon region, Statistics data showing VicHealth showed that healthier Australia. 85% of Victorians support VicHealth is supporting a 35.8% drop in alcopop health advisory labels on initiatives to reduce alcohol- consumption since the This year also saw the alcohol. We have continued related harm in sporting alcopops tax was introduced NAAA call on the major to campaign for the environments. For a full in 2008. (VicHealth was political parties to make an introduction of mandatory, description of this project, instrumental in advocating election commitment to government-regulated see p25. for the introduction of the reduce the $15 billion toll of evidence-based alcohol tax.) The per capita level alcohol-related harm. Footy clubs kick-off labels that are developed of consumption of spirits reduced alcohol initiative National minimal price independently of the alcohol also dropped, but there is AFL Victoria and VicHealth on alcohol The release of industry. This research is a sharply rising increase joined forces to promote groundbreaking evidence highly relevant because a in wine consumption. The a safe, welcoming and from the Cancer Council national revision of food and release calls for a more family-friendly environment Australia that any amount drink labelling is underway. consistent approach to at local football matches of alcohol can cause cancer alcohol taxation so that all by moderating the level of prompted VicHealth to join Australians fooled by low products are taxed by the alcohol content sold during others to call for a major carb beer myths Research amount of alcohol they these events. The Essendon overhaul to alcohol taxation by VicHealth revealed that contain. low carbohydrate beer District Football League, and to set a minimum drinkers mistakenly believe Western Region Football price to put an end to the these products are healthier League and the Central availability of cheap alcohol. and will keep the kilos off, Highlands Football League but they still binge drink sold only lower strength

While the social use of alcohol is widely accepted, alcohol causes 60 medical conditions, including cancer, obesity, liver failure, brain damage and stroke.1 Alcohol-related harm is a significant preventable health issue in Victoria, which is why VicHealth contributes to debates about alcohol use and supports policies and programs that aim to reduce the harm from alcohol.

For a full list of our program investments to reduce harm from alcohol, go to 11 Reducing harm from alcohol www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

References 1. AMA 2009, Alcohol Use and Harms in Australia - Information Paper, Australian Medical Association, http://ama.com.au/node/4762 30 Where we are headed Alcohol and violence We • On behalf of the • We will evaluate the funded Turning Point Alcohol Department of Health FebFast program to find and Drug Centre to examine and the Department of out if participating in this the relationship between Justice we are partnering annual event has any alcohol-related violence, with the Australian Drug impact on future alcohol hospital admissions and Foundation to develop consumption and whether it public holidays in Victoria. a communication and raises awareness about the The research provides education campaign long-term harms associated an important insight into to inform parents with alcohol. Victorian drinking cultures, and teenagers about • As a member of the giving policymakers important amendments to the Liquor National Alliance for Action baseline research from which Control Reform Act 1998 on Alcohol (NAAA), to establish projects that may that bans the supply of VicHealth is funding tax reduce alcohol-related harms alcohol to minors in a modelling research to surrounding public holidays private setting without form the basis of NAAA’s and events. This project won parental consent. This proposal for alcohol a VicHealth award this year legislation is backed by the taxation reform in Australia. (see p36). majority of Victorian adults. • As part of our Creating Asking questions about • VicHealth, in partnership Healthy Workplaces alcohol use in pregnancy with Responsible Alcohol program (see pp22 and 23), VicHealth funded the Victoria (RAV) and the we will be exploring how Murdoch Childrens Research Victorian Law Enforcement to reduce alcohol-related Institute to develop effective Drug Fund, is undertaking harm in the workplace. tools to document and assess a study of the social harms the level of drinking that associated with packaged is occurring in Australian liquor in Victoria. pregnant women. Although • In partnership with the there is much research that demonstrates the harms, Australian National there is almost no research Preventive Health Agency we will be updating the that accurately describes the 2009 evidence review on epidemiology of alcohol use the prevention of alcohol- in pregnancy. related harm.

11 Reducing harm from alcohol

Intoxicated teenagers face memory Parents can be supported to make VicHealth is campaigning for the loss, blacking out and the potential for responsible, informed decisions about introduction of mandatory health violence and sexual risk-taking. their children’s exposure to drinking. warning labels like these.

31 Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world – at least two in three people will be diagnosed before the age of 70.1 The good news is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers in Australia. That’s why VicHealth invests in the Cancer Council Victoria’s SunSmart program – it leads the world in promoting the balance between the benefits and harms of UV.

What we’ve done VicHealth continued to fund Farmers targeted for SunSmart iPhone app and support SunSmart, one skin cancer prevention SunSmart launched an of the longest running and New data showed that iPhone app, making it easier most successful skin cancer melanoma incidence rates than ever for Australians prevention programs in the among men and women to be SunSmart. The app world. Some of the highlights in rural Victoria are more was developed to provide from the year include: than one-third higher than people right across Australia for those in urban areas, with free, easy-to-access ‘Dark Side of Tanning’ putting this demographic in information on when you media campaign the most high-risk group for do and don’t need sun Preliminary data showed skin cancer in Victoria.2 In protection and when it’s safe that this graphic melanoma response, SunSmart targeted to get some sun for vitamin D. “ Sure, skin cancer may not happen to you, awareness campaign, famers and rural outdoor which ran in the summer Vitamin D campaign workers to raise awareness of just don’t bet the farm on it.” of 2010–2011, was SunSmart initiated a skin cancer prevention and Les Colman, Kotupna, Victoria successfully challenging vitamin D campaign for 2011, early detection. pro-tanning attitudes and encouraging Victorians to creating behaviour change Solarium regulation In get safe sun exposure to help in the target audience – response to preliminary with vitamin D levels. “I thought it would never happen to me. Skin cancer that is. One day I find a small bump on my forehead. The next day I’m getting chemo and facing adolescents and young findings from the Cancer months at a time in hospital. Now I am selling up. Take it from me, don’t risk losing your farm – when the UV Index is 3 and above wear a wide-brimmed Healthy Sporting people. Joint advocacy by Council Victoria solarium hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and regularly apply sunscreen.” sunsmart.com.au Protect your farm’S moSt imPortant aSSet. you. Environments VicHealth, Peter MacCallum compliance study, the Demonstration Project Cancer Centre and the Victorian Government Through this program, Cancer Council Victoria announced stricter which involves 78 clubs in resulted in a $1 million grant legislation and changes the greater Barwon region, from the state government in compliance monitoring VicHealth is supporting to extend the campaign, protocols. The number of initiatives to reduce harmful in partnership with the tanning units across Victoria UV exposure in sporting Victorian Department of has dropped dramatically environments. For a full Health. (approximately 61%) description of this project, since the introduction of see p25. legislation.

For a full list of our program investments to reduce harmful UV Reducing harmful UV exposure exposure, go to 12 www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ annualreport

32 SunSmart’s print advertisement from the Farmers’ campaign.

“ Sure, skin cancer may not happen to you, just don’t bet the farm on it.” Les Colman, Kotupna, Victoria

“I thought it would never happen to me. Skin cancer that is. One day I find a small bump on my forehead. The next day I’m getting chemo and facing months at a time in hospital. Now I am selling up. Take it from me, don’t risk losing your farm – when the UV Index is 3 and above Wherewear a wide-brimmed we are headed hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and regularly apply sunscreen.” sunsmart.com.au Protect your farm’S moSt imPortant aSSet. you. 30 years of Slip! Slop! Slap! • To see sustained changes in sun protective attitudes 2010 marked three decades of the iconic Slip! Slop! Slap! and behaviours, SunSmart will continue to build on its message. Since Sid the singing Seagull first brought Victorians successful campaigns to improve awareness and knowledge the sun protection message, the SunSmart program has about UV among priority population groups, including developed into an internationally recognised and multi-faceted secondary school students. UV protection program. • SunSmart will contribute to the Victorian Government’s Today the sun protection message has expanded to Slip! Slop! UV strategy, with set targets around changing the sun Slap! Seek! and Slide! and SunSmart plays a leadership role by protection behaviour of Victorians, particularly children, promoting a balance between the risks of skin cancer from too teenagers and young adults. much sun exposure and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels. • In addition, they will advocate for supportive environments and infrastructure to ensure a balanced approach to UV exposure.

References 1. Staples M, Elwood M, Burton R, Williams J, Marks R, Giles G. 12 Reducing harmful UV exposure Non-melanoma skin cancer in Australia: the 2002 national survey and trends since 1985. Medical Journal of Australia 2006; 184: 6–10. 2. Source: the Victorian Cancer Registry 2011.

33 Introducing VicHealth awards Awards for excellence in health promotion

Each year, VicHealth presents awards to recognise outstanding achievements and innovative contributions to health promotion in Victoria through VicHealth-funded projects. The awards, like our business activities, are defined by drawing on the health promotion actions identified in the Ottawa Charter. All projects were funded or completed during the 2010–2011 financial year.

34 36 Award for creating and using knowledge acquired through research and evaluation Drinking Cultures and Social Occasions: Alcohol harms in the context of major public holidays, sporting and cultural events Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre

38 Award for creating environments that foster good health Selandra Rise Demonstration Project Stockland, Planning Institute of Australia, City of Casey, Growth Areas Authority, RMIT

40 Award for communicating about priority health issues Identity: yours, mine, ours/Talking Difference Museum Victoria – Immigration Museum

42 Award for contributing to and advocating for healthy public policy and regulation Obesity Policy Coalition (joint winner) Cancer Council Victoria, Diabetes Australia–Victoria, WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention at Deakin University, VicHealth

44 Award for contributing to and advocating for healthy public policy and regulation ‘For the first time it is cheaper to quit than smoke’ (joint winner) Quit Victoria

46 Award for developing communities that are inclusive, accessible, equitable and safe Cricket4Me Cricket Victoria

48 Award for supporting organisations to plan, implement and evaluate health promotion activity Food for All Dissemination Project Victorian Local Governance Association

50 Award for facilitating participation and skill development Baby Makes 3 Whitehorse Community Health Service

35 VicHealth award winner Drinking Cultures and Social Occasions: Alcohol harms in the context of major public holidays, sporting and cultural events Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre

Researchers have provided “This is the first study to The project’s results offer “The findings from this a detailed account of the focus on a range of events a broad range of other project have the potential relationship between across the calendar year potential applications. to make a real difference cultural and social events for an extended period These include providing in terms of preventative and elevated alcohol- of 10 years, while taking benchmarks for future health policy development related harms, while into account the impact of research, and predictive not just in Victoria but incorporating factors seasonal and day of week modelling to help emergency more broadly,” Dr Lloyd that influence drinking variations.” Dr Lloyd said. service agencies in dealing said. “Agencies in other behaviour, such as weather with alcohol-related harms. jurisdictions have shown “We know that alcohol- and weekends. strong interest in this related harms peak at One of the study’s surprising research.” Dr Belinda Lloyd, of Turning weekends and that hot findings was that acute Point Alcohol and Drug weather affects alcohol intoxication was more likely Centre, led the research consumption and related to rise among young men the project, ‘Drinking Cultures harms. This project takes day before the Melbourne and Social Occasions’. these factors into account in Cup or the AFL Grand Final She said its approach is modelling the true burden of than on the day itself. innovative both in Australia alcohol-related harms. For Also surprising was a and also internationally in example, if a public holiday low correlation between drawing upon datasets from like New Year’s Eve or a alcohol-related harms, five sources: ambulance sporting event occurs on a such as emergency room attendances, VicRoads weekend, we are able to take presentations, and motor serious vehicle incidents, these background effects vehicle injuries. The fact that police recorded assaults, into account.” motor vehicle injuries did not hospital admissions This more nuanced rise in line with other alcohol- and emergency room information would enable related harms suggests that presentations. The alcohol- more sensitively targeted the drink-driving campaigns related harms it examined public prevention campaigns, have worked, she says, and, included acute alcohol she said. “That allows more if so, that is an encouraging intoxication, assault and cost-effective, targeted indication that public attitudes motor vehicle accidents. prevention and intervention and behaviour can be changed Patterns related to gender, that has a greater benefit for around drinking culture and age and general population the community.” alcohol-related harms. groups were also analysed.

36 VicHealth provided $94,000 funding over two years for the project ‘Drinking Cultures and Social Occasions’, which has seen Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre win this year’s Professor David Hill Award for Knowledge and Translation.

Health promotion award for creating and using knowledge acquired through research and evaluation

37 VicHealth award winner Selandra Rise Demonstration Project Stockland, Planning Institute of Australia, City of Casey, Growth Areas Authority, RMIT

The Selandra Rise As Melbourne experiences and the City of Casey then the infrastructure to make it project – like shops, schools, Demonstration Project unprecedented growth, came on board to form a easy for its residents to enjoy sporting and health care is a real-world model VicHealth has recognised partnership to start the active, healthy lifestyles. facilities – will be ready of how health concepts the importance of working project. A feature of the when the first residents and principles can be with major developers, demonstration project is the move in. Having these The three key objectives incorporated into a master such as Stockland, to assist construction of the Selandra facilities in place from the of this project are to create planned community. with the creation of healthy Rise Community Place, outset has highlighted the a healthy and engaged communities in the growth which will demonstrate importance to the project of Located in the City of Casey, community, provide local areas. simple ways that residents collaborative partnerships this 115-hectare community- employment opportunities, can save money, improve with a broad range of branded development was The Growth Areas Authority and create a diverse and their family’s wellbeing, and stakeholders. launched in July 2010 and its created the project in affordable choice of housing connect with neighbours and first residents will move in order to deliver world’s options. A number of key Jason Black is the PIA’s the wider community. from November 2011. It will best practice on a range of priority areas, such as Project Director on the ultimately house about different fronts. Developer promoting physical activity, Social infrastructure that demonstration project, a 4,000 residents. Stockland, the Planning social inclusion and safety, would usually take years to role he likens to being an Institute of Australia (PIA) have been incorporated into develop in a new housing independent ‘ideas broker’, 38 Health promotion award for creating environments that foster good health

The Selandra Rise Demonstration Project, a partnership between Stockland, the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA), the City of Casey and the Growth Areas Authority, won this year’s Environments for Health Award. VicHealth’s project commitment includes $600,000 over five years for an evaluation in partnership with RMIT.

Social infrastructure that would usually take years to develop in a new housing project will be ready when the first Selandra Rise residents move in. ensuring that input from all features will encourage VicHealth sees the Selandra project partners is pooled. walking, social connection Rise Demonstration “This project is a first for and access to healthy food.” Project as setting new Australia in embedding benchmarks in liveability The project’s success is preventative health planning and social sustainability being closely monitored. and health promotion and hopes it will encourage A five-year longitudinal solutions from conception to other developers to follow study has already begun by construction,” he says. Stockland’s lead. Research Practice Fellow Jason says health and Dr Cecily Maller of RMIT. wellbeing are integrated Dr Maller is investigating into the development’s soft whether the Selandra Rise and hard infrastructures. Demonstration Project “The project doesn’t require meets its health promotion special programs in order goals in the years ahead, for the health benefits to be while also delivering key realised,” he says. “Design evidence for future projects. 39 VicHealth award winner Identity: yours, mine, ours/ Talking Difference Museum Victoria – Immigration Museum

Museum Victoria’s projects “Our aim is to contribute “The aim of the exhibition A fellowship has been Identity: yours, mine, ours to fostering respect for is to encourage people to provided to enable emerging Visit Identity: yours, and Talking Difference diversity and difference. reflect, to change and to media artists to create new mine, ours at http:// combine the power of It is in this context that act,” says Museum Victoria works. VicHealth support museumvictoria.com. modern digital media and Identity: yours, mine, ours and producer Monica Zetlin. has enriched the exhibition’s au/immigrationmuseum/ the ancient art of story Talking Difference have been “But we also want people to development by expanding discoverycentre/identity/ telling to explore a highly launched. Both projects aim ultimately feel included – it its interactivity and enabling personal issue: identity. to challenge and change doesn’t matter what your the project team to contact Visit Talking Difference at perceptions and attitudes identity is. We always had like-minded groups across http://museumvictoria. Young people from Brimbank around race, religion and that clear idea of social Victoria. com.au/discoverycentre/ and Hume municipalities ethnicity,” she says. “These change and purpose to how websites-mini/talking- explored this theme using Tatiana Mauri, Talking two projects are a powerful we develop the content and difference/ images, film and text to tell Difference program manager, way to get people talking and the look and the feel of the their stories in digital form. says the portable studio and thinking about these issues exhibition.” In addition to the bonds the workshops have given and maybe even changing formed among participants, Talking Difference is a access, a safe space to share some attitudes and beliefs.” Technology, Arts and Social separate but thematically experiences and a sense of Connection (TASC) funding The Identity project has linked project based around validation to participants allowed the museum to produced a permanent a portable studio and whose stories would not develop a practice model exhibition based at the workshops that capture otherwise have been heard. for integrating community Immigration Museum that content from the community, “A lot of these participants are created digital content. can also be accessed online particularly people from from socially disadvantaged (see link opposite), with Indigenous and culturally backgrounds, including Padmini Sebastian, the responses from website and diverse backgrounds. The families who might recently Immigration Museum gallery visitors contributing portable studio is located have migrated,” she says. “As Manager, says the museum to the exhibition’s content. at libraries and community a museum we’re saying ‘your proactively creates forums centres around Victoria. story is important’.” for thinking, reflecting It taps into our natural People visiting the studio and developing a better curiosity about ‘people were drawn into virtual understanding of ourselves stories’ to confront the dialogue about cultural and each other. issues that shape identity, difference and diversity, with from ethnic diversity their contributions being to family, politics and videoed. spirituality. Images from top: Two Muslim girls in animal-print headscarves, Melbourne, 2011

Chapatis being prepared in the Gurdwara community kitchen, Sikh Gurdwara Temple, Blackburn, Melbourne, 2007

A man wearing the colours of Health promotion award for communicating the Aboriginal flag on Brunswick about priority health issues Street, Melbourne, 2011 Group of punks standing opposite Finders Street Station, Melbourne, 1999

40 VicHealth award winner Identity: yours, mine, ours/ Talking Difference Museum Victoria – Immigration Museum

Identity: yours, mine, ours/Talking Difference won this year’s Communications Award. It received VicHealth funding from two programs: $25,000 under Technology, Arts and Social Connection (TASC), focusing on creative uses of technology to increase social connection; and $150,000 under Arts About Us, which aims to encourage public conversations about the benefits of cultural diversity and the harm caused by race-based discrimination in the Victorian community.

41 VicHealth (joint) award winner Obesity Policy Coalition Cancer Council Victoria, Diabetes Australia–Victoria, WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention at Deakin University, VicHealth

The Obesity Policy and to be a high-level A testimony to Jane’s The evidence-based “What makes this work Coalition’s advocacy participant at government own contribution is her blueprint explains how is the commitment by all efforts this year have decision forums. VicHealth Jack Brockhoff Churchill different types of advertising the people at all these helped to advance reforms is an OPC partner, along with Fellowship win, which will should be restricted to organisations at very high in how food is advertised Cancer Council Victoria, fund her overseas trip to protect children and levels,” she says. “It makes it to children and ‘traffic light Diabetes Australia-Victoria, research other obesity proposes definitions of key efficient in getting messages labelling’ on food products and the World Health advocacy models. terms, such as ‘unhealthy out there.” The blueprint that would enable Organization (WHO) food’. Its release coincided continues to inform the The OPC advocates a consumers to make better Collaborating Centre for with new Cancer Council important advocacy work of long-term, multi-strategic choices. Obesity Prevention at research which found that the OPC. approach to stemming the Deakin University. 84% of consumers believe The Obesity Policy Coalition rising rates of overweight and children should be protected (OPC) promotes policies Jane says her recent obesity. It calls for concerted from unhealthy food and regulatory reforms that appointment to the action at all levels of civil advertising. encourage healthy eating and Australian National society, the private sector active lifestyles. Its Senior Preventive Health Agency and government. Enlisting the support of Policy Advisor, Jane Martin, Expert Committee on an impressive cast of She cites the OPC’s blueprint says its approach is a first for Obesity is an indication of outside partners, including for regulatory reform, Australia in tackling obesity how the coalition is seen by the Australian Medical presented to federal and prevention by harnessing a other stakeholders. “To have Association and the state governments in May, as coalition of highly influential the government recognising Australian Chronic Disease a major achievement of 2011. public health agencies. Its us as experts is a fantastic Prevention Alliance, ensured It is the first Australian plan flexible structure allows it compliment to the work we that the blueprint’s launch for legislation that offers real to invite in other partners are doing.” received widespread media protection for children from around particular issues, to coverage. unhealthy food advertising, pool resources and expertise, one of the key drivers of to generate higher media childhood obesity. coverage for its campaigns

Health promotion award for contributing to and advocating for healthy public policy and regulation

42 The Obesity Policy Coalition (OPC) is a joint winner of this year’s Advocacy Award for its work to advance reforms in how food is advertised to children. VicHealth’s funding commitment to the OPC in 2010–2011 was $130,000.

The Obesity Policy Coalition promotes policies and regulatory reforms that encourage healthy eating and active lifestyles.

43 VicHealth (joint) award winner ‘For the first time it is cheaper to quit than smoke’ Quit Victoria

Quit Victoria is a joint winner of this year’s Advocacy Award for its work to have nicotine replacement therapy listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. In addition to project funding of $200,000, VicHealth contributed funding to evaluate the project’s return on investment.

44 Health promotion award for contributing to and advocating for healthy public policy and regulation

The recent listing of After negotiation with the Preventative Health nicotine patches on suppliers and government Taskforce, as well as the Australia’s Pharmaceutical approval, the listing took precedent set by PBS listing Benefits Scheme (PBS) effect in February 2011. of NRT for Indigenous is predicted to result in Australians.” The PBS listing means 96,000 additional ‘quitters’ the cost of nicotine An economic analysis of and help avoid more than replacement therapy (NRT) the project predicts this 31,000 premature deaths in is dramatically reduced. reform will provide a net the first five years. return, including wider social Quit Victoria’s executive Between February and benefits, of more than director, Fiona Sharkie, May 2011, about 91,000 $54 billion. The report says, “The ripple effect prescriptions for nicotine projects that during the benefitting those individual patches were filled. Over subsequent lifetime of the smokers whose lives are three quarters of these 96,000 additional smokers saved, their families and the (79%) were to people who quit because of the PBS wider community will be far with ‘concessional status’, subsidy, more than reaching”. those occupying low $615 million in health care socio-economic groups “Our original aim in costs would be avoided. who are significantly over- approaching the PBAC was The predicted health represented in smoking and to make access to quitting benefits include the lung cancer statistics. With pharmacotherapies easier avoidance of almost 6,000 a GP’s prescription, they can for smokers on low incomes,” cases of lung cancer, 15,000 buy a four-week course of Fiona says. This group, which cases of chronic obstructive nicotine patches for $5.60, includes people who are pulmonary disease, 6,600 instead of paying up to $140. single mothers, homeless, heart attacks, almost 800 and/or have mental health strokes and over 31,000 Quit Victoria led the problems, have smoking premature deaths. project, from lodging a rates equally as high as detailed submission to the “Often Quit is recognised Indigenous Australians, who Pharmaceutical Benefits for its role as educating had already had PBS listing of Advisory Committee the public on the harms of nicotine patches approved. (PBAC) to partnering with smoking through our anti- other health groups such as “In preventative health, smoking campaigns,” says the Cancer Council Australia things can take a long time,” Fiona. “It’s really good to be and the Heart Foundation, to Fiona says. “This was the recognised for the work we drive an advocacy campaign third attempt to get PBS do in advocacy to influence The PBS listing means the cost of nicotine to build support for the listing for NRT. It finally government action.” replacement therapy is dramatically reduced, proposal. succeeded, with the PBAC Quit Victoria is a joint initiative making it more accessible for smokers deciding to go even further on low incomes. Submissions to PBAC of VicHealth, Cancer Council than our submission by require extensive research Victoria, the Department subsidising NRT for any and documentation of Health and the Heart smoker who obtains a GP’s concerning the safety, Foundation (Victoria). prescription. Factors that efficacy and likely cost- secured PBS listing this effectiveness of candidate time included new evidence medicines in comparison to that confirmed the efficacy therapies that are already of NRT, the prioritising of listed. Quit’s consultant tobacco control and smoking pharmacoeconomist, amongst disadvantaged Professor Susan Hurley, did people in the agenda of detailed work on its proposal.

45 VicHealth award winner Cricket4Me Cricket Victoria

A flexible approach and over the four-year funding age, gender or ability,” says “Waddington Mwayenga, officials and club volunteers. shared knowledge powered period. Annie. Coaches developed our multicultural cricket It has also modified game the success of Cricket various ways to teach a officer, is building the trust development policies and Cricket4Me helps to make Victoria’s Cricket4Me broader group of players, of African families and programs to be inclusive cricket more accessible to project in boosting diverse such as using batting tees the cricket community,” of all participants and disadvantaged communities, participation within and larger balls and modified she says. “Sometimes he’s its own workforce is now including people with a traditional sport. rules that make the game getting kids to join a club more diverse. a disability, Indigenous shorter and more engaging. after just one cricket clinic.” Cricket Victoria used Australians, culturally Annie says that in addition VicHealth’s Participation and linguistically diverse PICSAR funding has Funding from VicHealth to training programs, Cricket in Community Sport and communities (including new changed many individual has allowed Cricket Victoria draws on expertise Active Recreation (PICSAR) arrivals), and women and lives, sometimes through the Victoria to take a leading its staff has gained over funding to generate cultural girls. “It’s about creating a efforts of one person, Annie role in overcoming barriers many years, pooling their change under the leadership culture in cricket in which says, citing the contribution to participation by such shared experiences within and beyond the organisation. of Annie Hateley, Cricket everyone is welcome to of Waddington Mwayenga, strategies as inclusion Victoria’s Community play regardless of his or a former Zimbabwean Test training and education Annie says the fact that the Programs Manager, her cultural background, cricketer, as an example. programs for staff, coaches, role of her assistant, Cricket 46 Cricket Victoria’s Cricket4Me project won this year’s Community Development Award. The project received Participation in Community Sport and Active Recreation (PICSAR ) funding of $824,000 over four years from VicHealth.

Victoria’s Community Waddington Mwayenga, Programs Officer, has Health promotion award for a former Zimbabwean Test changed from being a cricketer, coaches some contract position funded by developing communities new recruits. PICSAR to a full-time Cricket Victoria job is evidence of that are inclusive, accessible, her organisation’s internal cultural change. equitable and safe The award nomination was “a good reminder to everyone that we’re all making a contribution”.

47 VicHealth award winner Food for All Dissemination Project Victorian Local Governance Association

An intensive campaign to to accessing healthy foods The dissemination campaign stakeholders participated “The real success of the share practical strategies in their communities. The was highly targeted, using in activities that included project is because of for boosting food security FFA program was designed new media (micro-movies), five capacity-building the enthusiasm of those has reached more than to increase regular access to, workshops, networking workshops, culminating in a local networks in local half of Victoria’s local and consumption of, a variety and mentoring to spread statewide forum. government and Primary government areas, of foods, particularly fruit and information resources and Care Partnerships which Leah encouraged local achieving an extremely vegetables, by people living in build greater capacity to deal helped us to bring the right governments to recognise high return from a small disadvantaged communities. with food security issues in people together,” she says. that food security was part of funding investment. municipalities where it would By the end of the FFA their core business, through An ongoing part of the have maximum impact. The 12-month Food for All funding period in 2010, their statutory obligations dissemination project Dissemination Project took participating councils, The campaign was designed to residents’ health and is the establishment, by a strategic and innovative their communities and and driven by Leah Galvin, wellbeing. Existing services Leah and VLGA, of an online approach to spreading the their partner agencies Food Security Policy and such as Meals on Wheels Community of Practice – knowledge gained from had improved knowledge Project Officer for the and maternal and child an informal network of like VicHealth’s five-year Food and skills to deal with Victorian Local Governance healthcare addressed food -minded practitioners who for All (FFA) program. food security and had Association (VLGA). security issues – it was just focus on learning, enhancing incorporated it into many a matter of extending the and sharing their practice Food for All started in Her efforts resulted in 44 of their plans, policies and council’s involvement, using to broaden their knowledge 2005 and funded nine local government areas strategic priorities. effective strategies that and expertise. local councils to improve and eight Primary Care could be low cost or no cost. integrated planning of key VicHealth wanted to Partnerships participating factors that influence access ensure the learnings from in the project. However, the She often asked council staff To find out more about to food: transport, housing, the FFA program would be project extended its reach to adopt a fresh perspective the resources, visit economic development and disseminated to all local more widely, to regional and pose a simple question. www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/ land use. councils to encourage them health services, community “Put your food glasses on foodforall to take on food security as health services, universities – am I making it better or Participating councils took part of their core business. and state government worse for local residents to the lead in reducing barriers departments. In all, 191 key access healthy food?”

Health promotion award for supporting organisations to plan, implement and evaluate health promotion activity

48 VicHealth provided funding of $60,000 to the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) for the Food for All Dissemination Project, which won this year’s Organisational Development Award.

Supporting residents to grow and harvest vegetables is one way local governments can advance the food security agenda. 49 VicHealth award winner Baby Makes 3

Whitehorse Community Health Service A key factor in the success of the Baby Makes 3 program is the group format.

The Baby Makes 3 project is a world first. But then Makes 3 helps new parents mother is at home caring for to attitudinal and emotional. is helping to prevent this program working with understand how gender roles the baby and doing more It covers issues like the need violence against women first-time parents on gender can subconsciously revert housework. “If she wants for valuing each partner’s by using maternal child expectations, focusing on to more traditional patterns to talk about the lack of respective contribution health services to promote the relationship between the during this transition. equality, it’s very easy for equally. greater gender equality parents, rather than between “Before the baby’s birth, her partner to be dismissive A key factor in the program’s between new parents. the baby and parents, is a the couple’s relationship and say, ‘Get over it’. When success is the group format: first in itself.” may have operated more they’ve sat in the group, dads Baby Makes 3 project couples see that they are not as an equal partnership can see that these are issues coordinator David Flynn, The project targets couples alone. “They meet other new with each making similar faced by all couples and it’s of Whitehorse Community during the transition to mums and dads who are also contributions,” David says. something they need to pay Health Service, says the their new roles as first-time adjusting to big relationship “But they can have very attention to.” project is internationally parents. It aims to sustain changes as they learn how to different perceptions about significant on two levels. respect and equality in their The group discussions help be parents,” says David. how equal their relationship “VicHealth’s application relationships so that violence couples explore how gender- is after the baby arrives.” Looking ahead, David sees of health promotion doesn’t ever occur. Through based expectations can Typically, the new father the program’s potential principles to the issue of facilitated group discussions influence their relationship in returns to work and the for promoting gender violence against women over three weeks, Baby myriad ways, from practical 50 Baby Makes 3 received $270,000 in VicHealth funding between 2008 and 2011 for a project led by Whitehorse Community Health Service, in partnership with the City of Whitehorse Maternal Child Health Service. The project was funded through VicHealth’s Respect, Responsibility and Equality Phase II program, which has supported the development of in-depth prevention programs in workplaces, local councils, faith communities, and health and community organisations.

equality across generations Baby Makes 3. With these and achieving long-term resources, the program could reductions in violence roll out Australia-wide. against women. “You can David says that winning the imagine the effects of that award raises the program’s baby growing up in a family Health promotion award for profile and will help with that is more gender-equal the roll-out to other local and respectful. He or she will facilitating participation and government areas. He carry those gender equality applauds VicHealth’s attitudes through life.” skill development visionary approach of The project team has used nurturing a community of additional funding from best practice research and VicHealth to prepare an projects across Victoria implementation guide for aimed at the primary local government. The prevention of violence Shire of Yarra Ranges will against women. be the second to adopt 51 Credits Photography: Cover: David Finnigan Pages 3, 15, 26 & 49: Mark Farrelly Page 7: Alyn Stafford, Communication Arts Page 8: David Finnigan Pages 11, 12, 50 & 51: David Johns Page 17: Tamaryn Goodyear Page 18: Jon Webb (gods&monsters) Pages 21 (left) & 23: Taras Mohamed Pages 20, 21 (right), 31 (left, middle), 37 (bottom left ), 38 (bottom left), 39 (right), 43 & 44: Getty Images Pages 24, 34 & 38 (top left, top right, bottom right) 39 (left): Thinkstock Page 29: Quit Victoria Page 31 (right): Jerry Galea Page 33: SunSmart/Cancer Council Victoria Page 37 (top left, right): iStockphoto Page 41 (top to bottom): Benjamin Healley (Museum Victoria); June Orford (National Library of Australia); Heath Warwick (Museum Victoria); Angela Lynkushka (Cowwarr Art Space) Pages 46 and 47: Thom Rigney

Design: Mackay Branson design Printing: Bambra Press

Victorian Health Promotion Foundation PO Box 154 Carlton South VIC 3053 Australia T. +61 3 9667 1333 F. +61 3 9667 1375 [email protected] www.vichealth.vic.gov.au ISBN: 978-1-921822-34-6 December 2011 Publication Number: C-057-CO