ACTIVE LIVING FOR ALL 2017-2019 A Framework for Physical Activity in Western Australia Premier’s Foreword Western Australians are blessed with amazing Designing safe, liveable and mixed-use opportunities to lead an active lifestyle. neighbourhoods that are walkable and accessible Our natural environment invites us to experience naturally encourages people to be active. In seemingly endless golden beaches, age-old such environments walking, cycling and public forests, twisting inland waterways and the red transport becomes second nature and effortless. dirt of the outback. Well-planned and designed The Western Australian Health and Physical environments such as pedestrian and cycle Education curriculum supports the Active Living paths, sport and recreation facilities, parks and vision by teaching public school students to town centres enable us to be more physically take responsibility for their own health, physical active in our local communities. activity levels, safety and wellbeing. This gives us an exciting opportunity in Active The Active Living agenda aims to improve the Living for All 2017–19. This framework looks at overall health and quality of life of individuals existing government strategies and delivers a and communities in Western Australia and robust framework which allows an integrated delivers positive economic, environmental, and coordinated response to encourage Western health and social outcomes. Australians to increase their daily physical The State Government acknowledges the activity. important role of local governments, not-for- Active Living is a lifestyle choice where people profit organisations and other stakeholders incorporate physical activity into their daily towards the Active Living agenda. routines and reduce sedentary behaviour, aiming I look forward to seeing Western Australians for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily being more active more often. for adults and 60 minutes for children. HON Mark McGOWAN BA LLB MLA We all know that regular physical activity has Premier many health benefits and improves our mental and emotional wellbeing. It can also help prevent heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes and some cancers. Participation in sport and active recreation encourages healthy and active lifestyles and has the power to bring people together, strengthening community bonds and connection. Contents

Introduction 1 1.1 What is Physical Activity and Active Living? 2 1.2 Overview of Active Living 3 1.3 Active Living Principles 5 The Importance of Physical Activity 7 2.1 The Evidence and Trends 8 2.2 Influences and Barriers 15 2.3 The Benefits 17 The Framework 19 3.1 About the Framework 20 3.2 The Outcomes 23 Applying the Framework 27 4.1 A Collective Approach 28 4.2 Key Drivers and Priorities for Active Living Implementation 31 Appendices 35 Appendix A – Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines 36 Appendix B – Glossary and Definitions 39 Appendix C – References 40

Purpose of this document This document and its summary lift out provides the objectives, strategies and Active Living for All 2017-19 represents actions for multiple sectors and settings the strategic direction for increasing and to achieve the common outcome of improving opportunities for physical ensuring physical activity opportunities activity and reducing sedentary behaviour exist for all Western Australians. in Western Australia. Acknowledgements This document presents the integrated The development of Active Living for All planning and delivery model that 2017-19 was led by the Department of acknowledges and is responsive to Sport and Recreation in collaboration with existing strategies and plans across a the Department of Health, Department of broad range of sectors. Transport, Department of Education and Highlighted within is evidence and Department of Planning. trends on physical activity and sedentary behaviour in Western Australia. ISBN: 978-1-921648-54-0

ii Active Living for All 2017-2019 01 Introduction

1 1.1 What is Physical Activity and Active Living? What is Physical Activity? The World Health Organization defines outdoor recreation and sports activities – has physical activity as any bodily movement significant benefits for health across all life produced by skeletal muscles that requires stages. For instance, it can reduce the risk of energy expenditure1. cardiovascular disease, diabetes, colon and Physical activity is a broad term that breast cancer, and depression. Moreover, includes playing sport, playing outdoors, adequate levels of physical activity will help exercise and fitness activities such as dance, manage weight and decrease the risk of falls, yoga and tai chi, everyday activities such and hip or vertebrae fractures in older age. as walking or cycling to work and school, Being physically active outdoors can household chores and gardening, and many provide additional physical and mental other forms of active recreation2. health benefits. Regularly visiting green The intensity of physical activity varies spaces is linked to higher levels of physical based on the levels of exertion and energy activity and spending 30 minutes per day at expenditure. Physical activity can be a park can reduce the incidence of high blood 6 categorised as: pressure and depression . »» Incidental physical activity is unstructured Physically active children tend to have better activity taken during the day, such as academic achievement, better attendance and 7 walking for transport, housework and the fewer disciplinary problems . performance of activities of daily living3. Physical literacy can be described as the »» Moderate-intensity physical activity motivation, confidence, physical competence, requires a moderate amount of effort knowledge and understanding to value and and noticeably accelerates the heart rate, take responsibility for engagement in physical such as brisk walking, dancing, cycling, activities for life. Developing physical literacy gardening, walking the dog and carrying from early childhood is important in promoting moderate loads4. physical activity and active living. »» Vigorous-intensity physical activity Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary requires a large amount of effort and Behaviour Guidelines recommend adults causes rapid breathing and a substantial undertake a minimum of 30 minutes of increase in heart rate, such as, running, fast moderate-intensity physical activity on cycling, aerobics, competitive sports and most days of the week for good health8. games, heavy shovelling, carrying/moving Children and young people are encouraged 5 heavy loads . to undertake a minimum 60 minutes of Regular moderate-intensity physical activity moderate to vigorous intensity physical – such as walking, cycling, or participating in activity each day.

2 Active Living for All 2017-2019

What is Active Living? Physical activity is fundamental to active Active living is supported by the places in living and in turn the health and wellbeing which we live – through the built environment of our community. such as pedestrian and cycle paths, sport Active living is a lifestyle choice where people and recreation facilities, public open space, incorporate physical activity into their daily parks and town squares. It is also supported routines – active transport (cycling to work or by cultural and social factors and programs school, walking to the bus stop or train station), such as healthy lifestyle and travel behaviour playing with the kids, gardening, or catching change programs, campaigns, information, up with friends for active fun. It also includes education, clubs, cost to participant, competing in sport or participating in an activity technology and a broad range of initiatives class or pursuit for pleasure and fitness. that encourage participation in active lifestyles. The aim is to build in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily for adults and 60 minutes for children.

1.2 Overview of Active Living

The Active Living for All framework has been developed to provide a coordinated and collaborative approach to ensuring physical activity opportunities exist for all Western Australians.

It aims to improve the overall health, It considers current and emerging trends in wellbeing and quality of life of individuals, physical activity and in doing so provides the families and communities. necessary context to inform a new three-year The purpose of the framework is to provide an strategic direction for active living in Western integrated planning and delivery model that Australia. It is based on two key outcome areas acknowledges, and is responsive to, a variety – active places and active people. of existing strategies and plans across a broad The original iteration of Active Living for All, range of sectors that impact and deliver on the Active Living for All 2012-2016, was developed by active living agenda. the Physical Activity Taskforce. This cross-agency The framework represents the strategic Taskforce was defunded and no longer exists. direction for increasing and improving Active Living for All 2017-19 is built upon the opportunities for physical activity and active foundations of the original framework and living. It builds on the existing work of others principles, and reflects changes in research, in bringing about the multiple economic, evidence and policy over the past five years. environmental, health and social outcomes provided by the active living agenda. 3 Recent accomplishments of the Western »» Delivery of the Western Australian Health Australian State Government which have and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum contributed to the Active Living agenda include: to public school students with the purpose »» Release of the draft Perth and to build resilience, make informed decisions [email protected] and Sub-Regional and take personal responsibility for their Frameworks – a suite of strategic land own health, physical activity levels, safety use planning documents that aim to and well-being. This includes a focus on accommodate 3.5 million people by 2050; developing health (and physical) literacy and »» Release of the Perth Transport Plan for 3.5 delivering two hours per week of physical million People and Beyond a long-term education. plan for transport infrastructure and travel »» Delivery of Your Move – a physical activity demand management, which prioritises and travel behaviour change program travel behaviour change programs and targeted to residents in the Cities of cycling infrastructure in Perth; Cockburn and Wanneroo. »» Release of the Western Australian Bicycle »» Support the delivery of physical activity Network Plan 2014-2031 which has a initiatives, such as bike week. strong focus to fund and prioritise the »» Increased safety and awareness of cyclists implementation of the metropolitan through initiatives such as ‘Might be a Mate’ bicycle network; cycle safety campaign. »» Development of a national priority-driven The State Government acknowledges the research agenda for obesity prevention, led important role of local governments and not- by Department of Health; for-profit organisations towards the Active »» Monitoring trends in adult and children’s Living agenda and their achievements. physical activity through the Health and Wellbeing Surveillance Survey and the Five key priority areas inform the development Australian Secondary School Alcohol and of Active Living for All 2017–2019: Drug Survey; »» Strengthening public policy »» Investment in population-based public »» Providing appropriate environments and education programs that promote healthy programs (active places and active people) living, including more active and less »» Increasing public motivation, understanding sedentary lifestyles; and behaviour change »» Support for the formation of Healthy Active »» Promoting collaboration and partnerships by Design – a tool to inform the design of »» Transitioning research into practice. communities that support and promote A lift out summary of the framework is healthy and active living – developed provided as a quick reference guide that through a partnership between the Heart outlines key aims and objectives as well as the Foundation (WA), the State Government, strategies for action by sector (e.g. planning academics and planning professionals; and health) and setting (e.g. school and the workplace). Active Living for All 2017–2019 provides direction to all sectors and settings to enable the implementation of a shared vision for increasing the physical activity levels of Western Australians. 4 Active Living for All 2017-2019

1.3 Active Living Principles

Active Living is a lifestyle choice where people incorporate physical activity into their daily routines and minimise prolonged sitting – active transport (cycling to work or school, walking to the bus stop), playing The aim is to build in with the kids, gardening, or catching up with at least 30 minutes of friends for active fun. It also includes competing in a sport or playing outdoors moderate-intensity or participating in an activity class or pursuit for pleasure physical activity daily and fitness. The aim is to build in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity daily for adults, and 60 for adults, and 60 minutes for children, with muscle and bone strengthening minutes for children, activities recommended on at least two days per week. Active living is supported by the places in which we live with muscle and bone – through the built environment such as pedestrian and strengthening activities cycle paths and end-of-trip facilities, sport and recreation facilities, public open space, parks and town squares. recommended on It is also supported by cultural and social factors and programs such as healthy lifestyle and travel behaviour at least two days change campaigns, information, education, clubs, cost to per week. participant, technology and a broad range of initiatives that encourage participation in active lifestyles.

5 The key principles for active living are: 7. Parks and public open space, including 1. Physical activity can improve physical and trails, should be safe, accessible, multi- mental health, overall quality of life and functional and part of a transportation bears multiple economic, environmental network that connects key destinations, and social outcomes. such as the home, workplace, school, community facilities and services, and 2. Everyone, regardless of age, gender, other places with high population density. language, ethnicity, economic status or ability, should have accessible, safe, 8. Buildings should be designed and oriented convenient and affordable choices for to promote opportunities for Active Living physical activity. and reduce sedentary behaviours. 3. Physical literacy should be 9. Local Governments and other governing developed from early childhood, bodies should plan for ongoing supporting lifelong participation and collaboration, promotion of facilities, include a focus on motivation, confidence, behavioural supports and, policies that physical competence (including embed the Active Living vision, and Fundamental Movement Skills), and incorporate routine maintenance ensuring knowledge and understanding. continued safety, quality, functionality and attractiveness of the physical infrastructure 4. Places should be designed to provide a and encouraging ongoing community use. variety of opportunities for physical activity and should accommodate a wide range of 10. Community governance and planning individual preferences and abilities. processes should address the multiple impacts of the built environment and 5. Land development patterns should transport choices on residents’ ability to be encourage mixed uses, compact design, physically active. and a variety of transport choices. 11. The community should be consulted 6. Transport systems should support in decision-making process and active transport options providing safe, associated planning opportunities convenient and affordable access to the for an active lifestyle. home, workplace, school and community facilities and services. (These principles have been adapted from information provided by the Active Living Resource Center, United States of America.)

6 Active Living for All 2017-2019 02 The Importance of Physical Activity

7 2.1 The Evidence and Trends

The World Health Organization has identified physical inactivity as the fourth global risk factor for mortality causing an estimated five million deaths worldwide each year9.

The World Health Organization’s Global Action and young people about the benefits of Plan 2013-2020 urges member states to physical activity and to facilitate healthy promote physical activity and contribute to the behaviours; and voluntary global target of a 10 per cent relative »» Encourage the evaluation of actions aimed reduction in prevalence of insufficient physical at increasing physical activity, to contribute activity. As a member state, Australian to the development of an evidence base of organisations are encouraged to: effective and cost-effective actions10. »» Adopt and implement national guidelines The increasingly sedentary lifestyle of on physical activity for health; large sectors of the population in many »» Consider establishing a multi-sectoral developed countries, including Australia, and committee or similar body to provide the consequent decline in physical activity leadership and coordination; is a major concern resulting in significant »» Develop appropriate partnerships and engage health, social, economic and environmental all stakeholders, in actively and appropriately consequences. High levels of inactivity can implementing actions aimed at increasing have serious consequences resulting in a physical activity across all ages; greater risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 »» Develop policy measures in cooperation diabetes and cancer. with relevant sectors to promote physical In addition to poorer health outcomes, poorer activity through activities of daily living, economic outcomes can be linked to physical including through ‘active transport’, activity. The cost of physical inactivity to the recreation, leisure and sport; Australian economy is estimated to be around »» Conduct evidence-informed public $14 billion ($1.4 billion in WA) and productivity campaigns at a community level through loss equates to 1.8 working days per employee social media to inform and motivate adults per year at a cost of $458 nationally11.

8 Active Living for All 2017-2019

Data from over 25 million 9-17 year old’s from 28 countries has shown that the aerobic fitness of young people has declined worldwide since 1975. Young people today are about 15% less aerobically fit than their parents were at the same age. The average young Australian today would finish 200m (or 12%) behind their counterpart from 1975 in a one mile (1609m) run.

Africa 360m behind

North America 335m

Asia 255m

Australasia 200m

Europe 140m START FINISH 0 m 1,609 m

2010 1975 Source: Is Sport Enough Report (2014)

Drive to work Work on computer Sit less, move more (1 hour) (4 hours) The average adult spends more than half Brisk walk Eat lunch of their day sitting. (30 minutes) (30 minutes) This is how the time can add up 

Adults who sit less throughout Work on the day have a lower risk of Bedtime 15 HOURS computer early death, particularly from TOTAL SITTING TIME (4 hours) cardiovascular disease. In addition to 30 minutes of physical activity per day, try Watch TV/read Drive home to limit your sitting time and (4 hours) (1 hour) interrupt prolonged sitting as often as you can. Eat dinner Strength training (30 minutes) (30 minutes)

Source: Heart Foundation Australia. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/images/uploads/main/Active_living/Sit_less__move_more.jpg

9 Trends in Western Australia Adults Physical Activity Note – Active Living for All 2012- Other concerning results The findings from the Health 16 utilised findings from the include that: and Wellbeing Surveillance Physical Activity Levels of Western »» 43% of Western Australian System (HWSS) show that in Australian Adults 2009 Survey. adults report spending most of 2015, almost two-thirds (64%) of This survey was commissioned by their day sitting13; and Western Australian adults were the Physical Activity Taskforce and »» Australian adults spend on sufficiently active for good health. is no longer undertaken. average 22 hours a week sitting Physical activity levels have Sedentary Behaviour at work and during travel14. remained steady around 63% over Many Australian adults sit for at the past five years. The HWSS Even among people who exercise least nine hours per day with a regularly, spending a large defines sufficient levels of physical considerable amount of time spent activity for adults completing at amount of time sitting or lying sitting for sustained bouts of 30 down can contribute to higher least 150 minutes of moderate- minutes or more12. This behaviour intensity physical activity (or rates of hospitalisation, non- is contrary to Australia’s Physical communicable diseases such as equivalent) in the previous week Activity and Sedentary Behaviour at the time of reporting. heart disease, type 2 diabetes and Guidelines that advocates cancer, as well as early death15. The Increasing levels of overweight and minimising prolonged sitting. increase in sedentary behaviour, obesity, in addition to the 36% including time spent sitting each of the adult Western Australian day is of significant concern. population who are not active enough for good health, remains a significant concern. 120

Other concerning results include: 100 »» Females are less likely to be 80 sufficiently active compared to their male counterparts (59% 60

compared to 68% in 2015). Minutes »» One in four adults aged 65 years 40 and over reported doing no 20 physical activity in WA in 2015. How we are physically active (the 0 18–24 25–34 35–44 45–54 55–64 64–74 75 and over purpose and intensity levels) Age group (years) generally change as we age. Table 2 illustrates the varying levels Vigorous Moderate Walking for fitness Walking for transport of physical activity – vigorous, Table 2. Persons aged 18 and over – Average minutes per week spent on physical moderate and walking for fitness activity, 2011-12. Source: Australian Health Survey: Physical Activity 2011-12 and transport – against different age groups.

10 Active Living for All 2017-2019

Children and Young People Physical Activity Over one third (37%) of Western Australian Findings from the HWSS show that in 2015, children and young people aged 0-15 38% of Western Australian children and young exceeded their age-related recommendations people aged 5-15 years were sufficiently active for electronic media use in 2015. The for good health. The proportion of children guideline for children under the age of two completing sufficient levels of physical years recommends no screen time, however activity in 2015 was the lowest on record, and 35% of this cohort reported screen time. In significantly lower compared with 2007 (56%) children aged 2-5 years, 68% exceeded their and 2008 (53%) estimates as well as the 10- recommended guideline of no more than one year average (46%). Sufficient levels of physical hour of screen time16. activity for children are defined as completing Findings from the Australian Health Survey at least seven or more sessions a week of show that in 2012, the average amount of time physical activity where each session lasted 60 spent in sedentary screen-based activities minutes or more. for Australian children aged 5-17 years was Note – Active Living for All 2012-16 utilised over two and a quarter hours (136 minutes) findings from the 2008 Child and Adolescent per day, with just six (6) minutes of this being Physical Activity and Nutrition Survey which for homework. Only 29% met the guidelines is no longer collected. to limited screen-based entertainment to no more than two hours per day17. Sedentary behaviour The increase in sedentary behaviour in children Table 3 illustrates the levels of physical activity and young people, including screen-based and sedentary screen-based activity through activity, is of significant concern. various age groups amongst children and young people.

200 180 160 140 120 100

Minutes 80 60 40 20 0 5–8 9–11 12–14 15–17 Age group (years) Physical activity Sedentary screen-based activity

Table 3. Children 5-17 years – Average minutes per day spent in physical activity & sedentary screen-based activity, 2011-12. Source: Australian Health Survey: Physical Activity 2011-12

11 Over one third (37%) of Western Australian children and young people aged 0-15 exceeded their age-related recommendations for electronic media use in 2015.

Other Population Groups Physical activity interventions have the potential to positively impact the health of at-risk population groups through reducing chronic disease and improving social outcomes. Research has shown that environmental (e.g. location, cost, facilities and safety) and cultural and social factors (e.g. support networks, perceptions of safety) are often barriers to participation and must be considered to increase physical activity rates, specifically for people with low socio-economic status. People with low socio-economic status generally participate less in physical activity and should be considered as a target group. Policy and interventions should be tailored to meet their needs and remove barriers to ensure access and equity. Marginalised groups who may benefit from targeted interventions include:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people People with a disability »» 43,731 people who identify as Aboriginal »» There is no current data source available and Torres Strait Islander (3.7% of the total for physical activity levels of people with population) are estimated to reside in a disability. Western Australia18. »» Participation rates in sport and physical »» Participation among Aboriginal people in recreation among people with a disability sport and recreation is much lower at a rate are significantly lower compared with at 30% when compared to non-Aboriginal people without disability. In Australian people at 65%19. adults, participation rates are 30% and 65% 22 Cultural and Linguistically Diverse people respectively . »» Western Australia is one of the most People with low Socio-Economic Status multicultural states in Australia with almost »» In 2015, adults living in the most one-third of the population born overseas20. disadvantaged areas of Western Australia »» There is no current data source available were less likely to be physically active than for physical activity levels of people from those in the least disadvantaged areas (55% a Cultural and Linguistically Diverse compared to 70%)23. background. Female Adolescents »» Participation rates in sport and physical »» Australian females aged 15-17 years recreation among those born overseas in averaged 30 minutes of moderate-vigorous a non-English speaking country have a physical activity per day, compared to 45 significantly lower participation rates (17.5%) minutes by their male counterparts24. compared with the general Australian population (65%)21.

12 Active Living for All 2017-2019

Everyone has a role to play in tackling physical inactivity and sedentary behaviours. Significant individual, family, community, organisational and environmental changes are required to increase levels of physical activity and improve overall mental and physical health and wellbeing.

13 14 Active Living for All 2017-2019

2.2 Influences and Barriers Influences External Influences External factors such as increased urbanisation »» The state of the economy will affect the Active and changes in technology have contributed to Living agenda in differing ways – from State declining levels of physical activity. Individuals Government budget efficiency requirements, are increasingly spending more time travelling the global financial situation, the effects on in cars as a mode of transport. Perth has one of low socio-economic communities, and global the highest rates of car use in the world. Every economic developments (particularly in Asia). day, Perth residents make more than 400,000 »» The projected labour force requirements, private car trips of less than one kilometre particularly from the resource sector, can (equivalent of up to a 10 minute walk)25. In present lifestyle challenges on physical addition, two out of three primary school activity levels especially for those fly-in fly- students in the Perth metropolitan area are out and shift workers. driven to school, even though most children live »» Technology has the potential to further within two kilometres (or a 20 minute walk) of reduce the levels of physical activity and their school. In contrast, non-motorised forms create more sedentary lifestyles through of transport, such as walking and cycling, offer labour-saving devices but should also be the potential to increase physical activity but an opportunity to impact positively on also reduce impacts on the environment. individuals, families and communities The demographic profile of Western Australia through increased communication options also impacts on rates of urbanisation, and and wearable technology. consequently the choices people make »» Climate Change will require new and about transport options. The key influences innovative ways of thinking to ensure that impacting the Active Living agenda include: places and spaces can be maintained to meet demand as well as function; and to »» Population growth will generate demand for ensure that reducing carbon emissions additional facilities, services and infrastructure through promoting active transport is as well as a move towards increased infill supported and encouraged. development. The ageing population will also impact on the planning and design of Barriers communities, and programs to increase Incorporating physical activity into daily routines accessibility and reduce potential for isolation. can sometimes be difficult and there are several »» Urbanisation will further the need for common barriers to participation in active well planned, compact, connected and living. Technological advances and increased conducive environments that support and conveniences, while making life easier, have encourage physical activity. lessened the need to be active. It is important »» Political influences will be important – to understand the reasons why some people strong advocacy, integrated planning, choose to be active and others do not, so that legislation and policy development will be creating strategies to overcome them can be required to ensure long term ongoing cross- better targeted to support and encourage party support for the Active Living agenda. physical activity as part of a daily routine. 15 The diagnosis of physical activity in WA identified the following barriers:

Facilities and Legislation Communication Services and Policy and Marketing

Geographical Partnerships / Financial Work / Life Spread Common Goal Disincentives Balance »» High car usage over »» Some local councils »» Benefits of »» Time constraints active transport & government company cars / tax »» Longer working departments not breaks hours Safety aiming to increase »» No incentives for »» Working parents »» Perception of physical activity public transport »» Fly-in & fly-out unsafe streets & »» Partnerships workers Funding Methods parks restricted to key Culture / Norms »» Media influence organisations & »» Short term funding »» Lack of widespread staff, rather than »» Insufficient funding »» Society norms e.g. infrastructure for widespread »» Time consuming young girls & sport physical activity applications »» Acceptance of Access to behaviours e.g. Electronic Workplaces Planning Policy cycling clothes at Entertainment »» Lack of physical »» Inconsistent work activity & changing »» Screen time versus implementation Role Modelling room facilities physical activity & enforcement »» Lack of »» Portability between local »» Lack of accessible opportunities for governments visible role models Lack of Volunteers incidental activity »» Open to e.g. young adults »» Occupational Health »» Difficult to recruit interpretation / teens, peers, & Safety & retain volunteers teachers »» Culture for sport clubs & School Policy »» Parental behaviour »» Policy unstructured sport »» Empowering school »» Support communities with Lack of Individual High Sport Emphasis participation of a greater sense Motivation / »» Elite, commercial & younger volunteers of investment in, Prioritisation competitive sports and ownership of, »» Personal cost- »» Lack of incidental & their schools and benefit equation lower level activities their children’s not sufficiently education. motivating

External Barriers Internal Barriers

16 Active Living for All 2017-2019

2.3 The Benefits

Increasing physical activity levels benefits individuals, families and communities. Active people are more connected to their community and active communities are more cohesive, productive and less dependent on the car. Active living also reduces the risk of breast cancer, depression and falls. Some of the key benefits to be gained from a more physically active community are wider than physical and mental health benefits alone and include social, environmental and economic outcomes27. Health Economic Being physically active – in particular outdoors, Physical activity improves productivity, is essential to improving physical and mental reduces absenteeism in the workplace and health. It helps to reduce chronic disease and supports overall economic growth. Growing other risk factors such as being overweight and participation in active lifestyles increases obese, and is important in the management the need for services and facilities that help of a range of health conditions. Being active support growth in the sport and recreation outdoors provides additional benefits and business as well as other associated industries people who are active are usually happier, including tourism, transport and retail. healthier and live longer. Increased levels of physical activity in the community reduce the need for medical Social intervention and the subsequent demand for Active people participate more in community health services, resulting in lower health costs. activities which in turn strengthens community Increased levels of active transport can reduce cohesion, improves social capital and reduces the costs associated with driving a car like isolation. Physical activity is an important petrol and parking. It also optimises the use of element of social interaction, building stronger existing transport infrastructure and services, communities through personal networks, and can reduce or defer spending on new volunteering and individual friendships. Active transport infrastructure28. living also supports a sense of place and connectedness to the community. Environmental Active communities and those participating in modes of active transport reduce the need for vehicle dependence and therefore the burden of traffic congestion, noise and carbon emissions, which lessens the impact on the environment.

17 The Multiple Benefits of Physical Activity

Health Increases Reduces »» Risk of developing dementia »» Fitness, stamina and energy »» Chronic illness and disability »» Feelings of fatigue, depression, stress »» Lean muscle, muscle strength and »» Mortality rates and risk of dying and anxiety bone density prematurely »» Risk of menstrual symptoms, »» Flexibility, coordination, balance »» Risk of coronary heart disease, constipation and back pain and development of a wide range cardiovascular disease and stroke »» Risk of postnatal depression of motor skills »» Risk of diabetes, high cholesterol and »» Demand on health services »» Improved immune system high blood pressure Supports »» Healthy ageing, mobility, »» Risk of colo-rectal and breast cancer »» Improved sleep and rehabilitation independence and quality of life in »» Risk of asthma »» Weight management older adults »» Risk of osteoporosis and symptoms »» Cognitive functioning, memory, learning »» Mental health and wellbeing of arthritis and better performance at school »» Memory, behaviour, concentration »» Body fat, overweight and obesity »» Improved mood, quality of life, sense and reasoning ability »» Falls and injuries in older people of wellbeing and long term health

Social Economic Increases Reduces Increases »» Active and vibrant community hubs »» Social isolation and loneliness »» Tourism »» Social skills and networks »» Antisocial behaviour »» Retail »» Social capital and community »» Business and employment connections Supports opportunities »» Access to services and resources »» Stronger, connected communities »» Investment opportunities »» Independent living »» Community inclusion and »» Productivity and growth »» Improved communication, public enjoyment »» Optimises the use of existing team building, leadership and »» Community cohesion and infrastructure cooperation skills capacity building »» Crime prevention Reduces »» Cultural links through activities »» Vandalism costs »» Absenteeism »» Workplace accidents/injury and workers compensation claims Environment »» Health care costs and claims Increases »» Demand for major road »» Pressure on insurance premiums »» Uptake of active transport, infrastructure (roads, car parks) for employers walkability and economic viability of »» Staff turnover Supports local areas »» Car related expenses »» Incidental activity »» Influences the development of well- »» High costs of passenger transport »» Community safety planned and designed spaces and infrastructure »» Settings for active living »» Reduce (or defer) spending on new Reduces »» Improved public access and transport infrastructure »» Traffic congestion, air and noise linkages to neighbourhood and pollution key activity centres Supports »» Use of fossil fuels and energy use »» Improved connectivity »» Local Business »» Greenhouse gas emissions, global »» Attracts workforce warming and climate change impacts »» Active and healthy employees and workplaces

18 Active Living for All 2017-2019 03 The Framework

19 3.1 About the Framework

Active Living for All 2017–2019 provides a strategic framework for physical activity for the next three years. The intent of the framework is to give direction to all sectors and settings to enable the implementation of a shared vision for increasing the physical activity levels of Western Australians.

The framework provides an integrated and »» Acknowledges a variety of existing strategies coordinated response to deliver a whole and plans which are delivered through of government and whole of community partnerships and collaborative approaches; approach in tackling physical inactivity. It »» Is responsive to national agendas around sets out the key objectives and strategies in physical activity and health; activating people and places. »» Provides an overall direction for increasing The framework was developed in accordance physical activity and secures and aligns with the following principles: stakeholder commitment to that direction; »» Gives direction and support to the delivery of »» Focuses on the development of increased implementation plans for stakeholders; and participation in physical activity throughout »» Is evidence based where possible and Western Australia; evaluated to contribute to the Active Living »» Is integral to the work of many sectors e.g. agenda. planning, transport, health, education, and sport and recreation;

Mission Vision To improve the overall health, wellbeing and quality For Western Australia to of life of individuals and be the most active state in communities in WA through Australia increasing active living opportunities for all Outcome Increase in physical activity and decrease in sedentary behaviour

Priorities Strengthening Providing appropriate Increasing public Promoting Transitioning public policy environments and motivation and collaboration and research into programs understanding partnerships practice

20 Active Living for All 2017-2019

The overarching aim of the framework is to increase physical activity levels and improve opportunities for all Western Australians to participate in all forms of physical activity. The vision for Western Australia is to be the most active state in Australia. The mission is to increase active living opportunities for all Western Australians to improve the overall health, wellbeing and quality of life of individuals, families and communities. The framework also responds to five priorities for change in the diagnosis of physical activity in WA and that underpin the development of Active Living for All 2017–2019. These priorities are to:

1 Strengthening public policy; 2 Providing appropriate environments and programs (active places and active people);

3 Increasing public motivation and understanding;

4 Promoting partnerships; and 5 Transitioning research into practice.

There is overwhelming evidence which demonstrates that the built environment impacts on the mental and physical health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities, and in particular, on their active lifestyle choices.

21 Physical Activity Framework Content

Why Active communities benefit everyone: »» Economic – lower health and travel costs »» Social – greater social interaction, and improved workplace productivity supporting a sense of place and »» Environmental – reduced vehicle connectedness to the community. dependence resulting in decreased traffic »» Health – happier, healthier individuals with congestion, noise and air pollution reduced risk of chronic diseases, overweight and obesity.

How Five key priorities have been identified to create change: 1. Strengthening public policy 3. Increasing public motivation and 2. Providing appropriate environments and understanding programs (active places and active people) 4. Promoting partnerships 5. Increasing research into practice

What Active Places Active People »» Provide well planned and designed »» Provide initiatives that promote positive environments that support, encourage and behaviour change and opportunities to enable active living participate in active lifestyles

Who No single organisation can increase physical activity levels alone. A collective approach is required by: »» State Government »» Health care »» Local Government »» Planners, developers and urban designers »» Not-for-profit »» Academia and tertiary education »» Private Sector »» Advertising and media. 22 Active Living for All 2017-2019

3.2 The Outcomes Active Places Well planned and designed environments supporting, encouraging and enabling active living.

Key objectives Planning and Design Connected Communities »» Ensure the physical and mental health and »» Design well connected streets and wellbeing of individuals and communities is neighbourhoods providing direct and central to all planning and design decisions. quality routes. Policy Conducive Environments »» Embed active living principles in policy and »» Provide multi-functional public open space legislation to support compact, connected and adequate infrastructure. and conducive environments. Integrated Transport Planning Compact Developments »» Develop safe and quality environments »» Provide access to local services, facilities for walking and cycling that connect people and amenities through mixed land-use to places. and intensity.

Key Strategies »» Early planning of key neighbourhood infrastructure, parking management destination points e.g. shops and services strategies and transport pricing »» Access to local amenities, services and facilities »» Adequate and multi-functional public »» Convenient location of community facilities open space that are co-located with appropriate »» Aesthetic design of street-scape facilities creating a community hub and infrastructure »» Availability of accessible and adequate »» Management of traffic volume and speed public transport »» Safe road crossings »» Prioritisation of active transport (pedestrians »» Adoption of Crime Prevention Through and cyclists) over motorists Environmental Design principles »» Connected street networks (including »» Community consultation and engagement connected footpaths and bike paths) »» Passive surveillance »» Adequate active travel (pedestrian and »» Responsible use of, and access to, the cycling) infrastructure and end of trip facilities natural environment »» Delivery of travel demand management »» Application of disability access and inclusion initiatives such as walking and cycling plans for developments and facilities. 23 The key objectives and supporting strategies for action are provided for all sectors to work together to build active communities. The aims are to: »» Increase residential density, intensity of land- use and active transport networks to support local businesses, employment, education, cultural and recreational opportunities and frequent accessible public transport. There is overwhelming evidence which »» Encourage groupings of key destination demonstrates that the built environment impacts points within close proximity of each other to on the mental and physical health and wellbeing improve accessibility, integrated facilities and of individuals, families and communities, and in multiple uses of space and transport networks. particular, on their active lifestyle choices. Where »» Manage vehicle traffic to provide safe we live, learn, work and play can directly affect environments for walking, cycling and other participation in physical activity29. physical activities. Research shows that the design and location »» Provide an accessible, attractive and of streets, parks, recreational facilities, homes, welcoming street environment, with well- schools, workplaces and retail areas can maintained paths for all users. encourage active lifestyles. »» Create connected street networks that allow pedestrians and cyclists to take more Well planned and designed neighbourhoods direct routes to and from destinations and are critical to increasing physical activity between neighbourhoods ensuring networks levels by creating accessible and conducive are interconnected. environments that support and encourage »» Design and locate schools to facilitate young active living opportunities. people’s active transport to school and The aim of Active Places is to develop liveable, physical activity while at school. healthy and active communities through the »» Design multi-purpose public open spaces provision of adequate, safe and accessible that are functional and accessible and cater infrastructure, facilities and public open space for for the needs of children, adolescents, adults physical activity. Planning and developing active and seniors of all abilities. places requires an integrated and collaborative »» Create communities where people feel approach. Planners, urban designers, engineers, safe in their homes, in the local streets and architects and developers all have a role to play neighbourhood public spaces. in designing and building neighbourhoods that »» Design buildings that create opportunities for support and encourage active living. This needs daily physical activity and reduce sedentary to be done in partnership with other professions behaviour through building functions, from sport and recreation, community increasing stair use and provision of facilities development, and health. such as changing rooms and showers.

24 Active Living for All 2017-2019

Active People Initiatives that promote positive behaviour change and opportunities to participate in active lifestyles.

Key objectives Healthy Lifestyle Campaigns Programs »» Promote and reinforce the importance of »» Ensure a diverse range of accessible and Active Living messages. affordable opportunities in community settings. Behaviour Change Targeted Populations »» Provide information, education and »» Provide inclusive activities that cater for all awareness-raising strategies and support. life stages, abilities, cultures, genders and Prevention socio-economic status. »» Strengthen the role of Primary Healthcare Community Need Networks in encouraging physical activity. »» Undertake community profiling and Policy Development ensure local need is reflected in all »» Embed Active Living principles into planning decision-making processes. and policy development. Community Engagement »» Consult with the community in the planning and programming of opportunities for Active Living.

Key Strategies »» Delivery of evidence-based behaviour »» Programs tailored to targeted population change programs groups »» Delivery of travel demand management »» Diversity of activities considered initiatives such as travel behaviour change »» Adoption of ‘count me in’ disability principles programs, travel plans, walking and cycling »» Affordable activities provided infrastructure, parking management »» Active play opportunities provided in early strategies and transport pricing childhood and care settings »» Campaigns incorporating Active Living »» Whole of school approaches adopted to messages implement school physical activity policy »» Accessible public information and »» Workplace physical activity policies and education provision initiatives in place »» Develop physical literacy from early childhood »» Access to diverse local sport and recreation »» Physical activity promotion in primary opportunities healthcare practices (e.g. prescribing physical »» Identification and promotion of community activity and exercise) champions »» Community profiling, consultation and 25 engagement practices adopted The delivery of accessible, affordable and The aim of Active People is to promote the inclusive programs promotes community benefits of physical activity and encourage cohesion, builds capacity and improves participation in active lifestyles through overall wellbeing. specific campaigns and programs that directly Active communities are social communities that influence and support behaviour change and encourage participation in a range of activities health outcomes. and events that support active living. Increasing the number of active people Programs should also be supported by requires a coordinated response from a range health promotion that encourages positive of professions. The provision of information behaviour change through relevant information, and delivery of programs is fundamental communication and education. in motivating and supporting people to be physically active. An informed community provides the opportunity for individuals to make healthy Communicating the benefits of physical activity lifestyle choices through raising awareness of the and tailoring programs to meet the needs importance of physical activity. of ‘at-risk’ groups is key to tackling physical inactivity and improving the physical and mental The delivery of opportunities within specific health and wellbeing of individuals, families and settings to activate communities through communities. supporting and encouraging targeted initiatives and programs for specific population groups is The key objectives and strategies for action are critical in reducing levels of physical inactivity. provided to ensure that programs and initiatives: These settings include homes, child care centres, »» are evidence-based schools, workplaces, outdoors and sport and »» meet local need recreation facilities and clubs in communities »» are accessible and affordable that directly influence and increase levels of »» support behaviour change physical activity. »» complement existing information and service provision

26 Active Living for All 2017-2019 04 Applying the Framework

27 4.1 A Collective Approach

Active Living for All 2017–2019 sets out the and details the key roles, responsibilities and strategic vision required to tackle physical activities required to tackle this important inactivity and sedentary behaviours to agenda and realise significant economic, meet the needs of the Western Australian environmental, health and social outcomes. community. It seeks to guide agency planning It sets out the key actions on physical activity and ensure that associated services are for key sectors and settings. Supporting local complementary and responsive. It focuses governments and organisations to develop on a whole-of-government and whole-of- local solutions is a key priority. community response to activate places and Embedding Active Living principles in local people. Everyone has a role to play in tackling planning processes, identifying funding physical inactivity and sedentary behaviours. opportunities and providing information to guide Significant individual, family, community, policy and program development is crucial. organisational and environmental changes are required to increase levels of physical activity Active Living for All 2017–2019 is supported and improve overall mental and physical through a model of collaboration and health and wellbeing. coordination and aims to provide a joined-up approach of a cross-government agenda that The lift out summary of the Active Living brings multiple benefits to individual agencies framework outlines the collective approach in and outcomes for individuals and communities. implementing Active Living for All 2017–2019

Key Sectors Commonwealth Health Care Government

Advertising Key Settings State & Media Government Workplace Community Settings Settings Planners, Local Developers & Individuals Outdoor Government Urban Designers Home Settings Settings

School Early Childhood Private Sector Settings & Care Settings Non Government

Academia & Community Tertiary Education Organisations

28 Active Living for All 2017-2019 In July 2016, the Public Health As part of the Act, the State Although local governments Act 2016 received Royal Assent. Government and Local are not required to produce This Act will repeal much of the Governments will prepare public their Local Plans until two years outdated Health (Miscellaneous health plans to adopt a strategic after Part 5 is enacted, which is Provisions) Act 1911 and is designed and forward-thinking approach expected to occur 2 -4 years from to better protect and promote that ensures that public health now, the Department of Health is the health and wellbeing of all can be effectively protected and preparing an Interim State Public Western Australians. The Act promoted. Local Governments Health Plan to support local aims to prevent disease, injury, will identify the public health governments to prepare a Local disability and premature death also needs of their population and Plan that meets the requirements encourage individuals and their deliver services for the promotion of the Act. communities to plan for, create and and protection of public health. maintain a healthy environment.

For more information on the Act visit http://ww2.health.wa.gov.au/Improving-WA-Health/Public-health/Public-Health-Act

Role of Government The intention of this framework is to provide an overall direction for increasing physical activity through the delivery of Government policy, plans and services. State Government The following sectors within government have outlined their commitment to Active Living for All 2017–2019. A snapshot of current related activity is provided below.

1 Education 2 Health High Performance – High Care a Strategic The department is responsible for the Plan for WA Public Schools 2016-19 development of government policy sets the focus for a strong public school on health and delivers a wide range system where a culture of high care of public health services that aim to acknowledges that staff are influential at improve, promote and protect the health different stages in the lives of students, of Western Australians. The WA Health and there is a high expectation for every Promotion Strategic Framework 2017- student to succeed and to accomplish 2021 outlines WA Health’s strategic their very best. The Department empowers direction and priorities for reducing the school communities to teach students prevalence of chronic disease and injury to be part of a healthy, active population over the next five years with a focus on the and experience the personal and social main lifestyle risk factors which contribute benefits of living a healthy, active and most to the burden of chronic disease – fulfilling life. including insufficient physical activity and overweight and obesity.

29 3 Planning The following sectors positively contribute to Planning decisions help determine the Active Living agenda: the physical and social characteristics »» Aboriginal Affairs of communities and directly influence »» Communities health by either encouraging or »» Culture and the Arts discouraging active living. Planning »» Disability Services an active community is complex and »» Healthway no single strategy or department can »» Local Government adequately cover all the factors. The »» Lotterywest department and its key strategies such »» Mental Health as the State Planning Strategy, Perth »» Parks and Wildlife and [email protected] and Liveable »» Regional Development Neighbourhoods are essential, along with »» State Development a collaborative approach. »» Tourism 4 Sport and Recreation »» Water The sport and recreation industry plays a critical role in improving community Local Government wellbeing and collaborative physical The services provided by local governments activity endeavours in this state. Strategic are broad and vary and make a difference for Directions 6: Strategic Directions for the local communities. The three categories that West Australian Sport and Recreation local governments deliver and the functions in Industry 2016-2020 provides a five-year which are relevant to Active Living are: vision and has been developed by industry »» Services to people and the community – as a pivotal sport and recreation industry community services, recreation and culture, planning framework. sporting grounds and facilities, reserves, 5 Transport parks and gardens. The Department of Transport’s purpose is »» Services to property – roads and footpaths, to provide and enable safe, accessible and land drainage and development, street efficient movement for the economic and lighting, street cleaning. social prosperity of Western Australia. The »» Regulatory services – exercise controls Department of Transport’s contribution to enforce legislation covering health, to the Active Living agenda is set out in buildings, planning and traffic hazards. its plans and strategies including the WA Local governments are essential in supporting the Bicycle Network Plan. Encouraging more delivery of both Active Places and Active People. active transport such as people walking, cycling and using public transport more often is an essential element of achieving Active Living.

30 Active Living for All 2017-2019

4.2 Key Drivers and Priorities for Active Living Implementation Key drivers Active Living for All 2017–2019 has been developed in line with key drivers at a global, national, state and local level, to promote a responsive and complementary approach. This also increases the potential to influence and embed Active Living principles in existing strategies and plans.

Global

»» International Society of Physical Activity and Health: »» World Health Organisation: Global Action Plan for the Toronto Charter for Physical Activity. A Global Call for Prevention and Control of Non-communicable diseases Action and Non-Communicable Disease Prevention – 2013-2025. Investments that Work for Physical Activity.

Federal

»» National Urban Policy – Our Cities, »» National Mental Health Plan Communities, a population strategy Our Future »» Play. Sport. Australia »» National Disability Strategy »» National Cycling Strategy »» National Primary Health Care »» Closing the Gap and associated »» National Early Childhood Strategy reports Development Strategy »» Sustainable Australia – Sustainable »» National Volunteering Strategy

State

»» State Planning Strategy »» Integrated Planning and Reporting »» Outdoor Recreation Strategy for »» Draft Perth and [email protected] Framework Western Australia* and Sub-Regional Frameworks »» Public Health Act »» Healthway Strategic Plan »» Draft Green Growth Plan for Perth »» WA Health Promotion Strategic »» Count Me In – Disability Future and [email protected] Framework Directions Strategy »» Liveable Neighbourhoods »» Department of Education Strategic Plan »» Reconciliation Action Plan »» [email protected] people »» Strategic Directions for the Sport »» Walk WA Strategy and beyond and Recreation Industry »» Mental Health Strategic Plan »» Western Australian Bicycle »» Western Australia Strategic Trails »» Parks and Wildlife Strategic Network Plan Blueprint* Directions

Local

»» Strategic Community Plan »» Sport and Recreation Plans »» Active Ageing Strategies »» Local Planning Schemes, Strategies »» Early Years Plans »» Youth Strategies and Policies »» Physical Activity Plans »» Tourism Strategies »» Structure Plans and Local »» Workforce Strategies »» Disability Access and Inclusion Plans Development Plans »» Health and Wellbeing Strategies »» Culture and Arts Strategies »» Asset Management Plans »» Workplace Travel Plans »» Environmental Plans »» Major Infrastructure/Works Strategies »» Cycle Plans »» Community Safety Strategies »» Community Development Plans

31 *Due for release in 2017–2019 Key priorities These priorities provide the foundations for change and underpin the implementation of Active Living for All 2017–2019.

1 Strengthening public policy 4 Promoting collaboration Policy is integral to influencing behaviour and partnerships change. Embedding active living principles in Increasing levels of physical activity policy, planning and legislation will assist in is acknowledged to be a too great delivering active living outcomes. Investment an undertaking for any single agency in policies, programs and infrastructure that or organisation to achieve alone. support and encourage active living will also Organisations should collaborate and work bear multiple outcomes. in partnership to maximise outcomes through developing more integrated 2 Providing appropriate environments and programs relationships with existing partners and The importance of providing the right type working with a broader network of public of places, facilities and programs for the and private organisations. community is crucial. Delivering facilities 5 Transitioning research into practice and programs that address barriers to While there is an extensive volume of participation and are fit-for-purpose is research available it is often difficult to critical in providing for active lifestyles. identify the most relevant or appropriate research to be translated into practice. 3 Increasing public motivation and understanding The provision of research should guide There is a strong public awareness policy review and program development of the need to participate in physical to support the best use of emerging activity. However, there are still barriers knowledge and evidence. for individuals when it comes to taking Research specific to geographical areas will action, including lack of motivation, also help stakeholders to understand the the struggle in achieving a work/life behaviours of communities and therefore balance, societal norms and accessible target funding and programs towards role models. Leveraging the mutual the greatest level of need and impact. benefits of active living through education Research can also be used to justify levels and persuasion strategies is needed to of investment in facilities and quantify the motivate individuals to take action and benefits and value of the outcomes as well make positive behaviour change. Engaging as cost savings to the broader community. stakeholders and elevating the priority placed on physical activity is important. 32 Active Living for All 2017-2019

The building blocks for Active Living for All 2017–2019 The key components required to improve and increase physical activity.

Active Communities  Outcomes  Active Places Active People

 Objectives  Well planned and designed environments that Initiatives that promote positive behaviour support, encourage and enable active living change and provide active lifestyle opportunities

 ‘At-Risk’ Target Population  Cultural and Low Participatory People with Low Socio-Economic Aboriginal people Linguistically Groups e.g. disability Groups Diverse adolescent girls

 Life Course Approach  Early Years Children Young People Adults Older People (0–5 years) (5–12 years) (12–17 years) (18–64 years) (65 and over)

 Key Settings  Early Childhood Home Schools Community Workplace and Care

 Key Sectors  Academia and Advertising State and Local Private Non Profit Tertiary Education and Media Government

Education Health Planning Sport and Recreation Transport

 Key Priorities 

Providing appropriate Increasing public Promoting Transitioning Strengthening environments and motivation and collaboration and research into public policy programs – active understanding partnerships practice places and people

33 34 Active Living for All 2017-2019 05 Appendices

35 Appendix A – Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines

Regular physical activity has many health benefits and plays an important role in promoting healthy weight. It can help prevent heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers, and also improve psychological well-being. Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines outline the minimum levels of physical activity required to gain a health benefit and ways to incorporate incidental physical activity into everyday life. Children (0-5 years) using other electronic media (DVDs, computer and other electronic games) and for children Being physically active every day is important 2 to 5 years of age these activities should be for the healthy growth and development of limited to less than one hour per day. infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Television, DVDs and playing computer games For infants (birth to one year) physical activity usually involve sitting for long periods – time – particularly supervised floor-based play in which could be spent playing active games or safe environments – should be encouraged interacting with others. from birth. Infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers should Before infants begin to crawl, encourage not be sedentary, restrained, or kept inactive, them to be physically active by reaching and for more than one hour at a time, with the grasping, pulling and pushing, moving their exception of sleeping. head, body and limbs during daily routines, and during supervised floor play, including All children need some ‘down time’ but they tummy time. Once infants are mobile, are not naturally inactive for long periods of encourage them to be as active as possible time. Sitting in strollers, highchairs and car in a safe, supervised and nurturing play seats (restrained) for long periods isn’t good environment. for children’s health and development. Try to take regular breaks on long car trips and walk Toddlers (1 to 3 years) & pre-schoolers (3 to 5 or pedal for short trips when you can. years) should be physically active every day for at least three hours, spread throughout the day. Children (5-12 years) Young children don’t need to do their three A combination of moderate and vigorous hours of physical activity all at once. It can activities for at least 60 minutes a day is be accumulated throughout the day and can recommended. include light activity like standing up, moving Examples of moderate activities are a brisk walk, around and playing as well as more vigorous a bike ride or any sort of active outdoor play. activity like running and jumping. More vigorous activities will make kids “huff Active outdoor play is the best way for young and puff” and include organised sports such as children to be physically active. football and netball, as well as activities such Children younger than 2 years of age should as ballet, running and swimming laps. not spend any time watching television or 36 Active Living for All 2017-2019

Children typically accumulate activity in For additional health benefits, try to include 20 intermittent bursts ranging from a few seconds minutes or more of vigorous activity at least to several minutes, so any sort of active play three to four days a week. will usually include some vigorous activity. Adults (18-64 years) Most importantly, kids need the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that are Doing any physical activity is better than doing fun and suit their interests, skills and abilities. none. If you currently do no physical activity, Variety will also offer your child a range of start by doing some, and gradually build up to health benefits, experiences and challenges. the recommended amount. On at least three days per week, children There are four steps for better health for should engage in activities that strengthen Australian adults. muscle and bone. Activities like skipping, Together, steps 1-4 recommend the minimum running, dance, gymnastics and martial arts as amount of physical activity you must do to well as games like tug-o-war and hopscotch enhance your health. They are not intended help children grow strong bones and muscles. for high-level fitness, sports training or weight To achieve additional health benefits, children loss. To achieve best results, try to carry out should engage in more activity – up to several all three steps and combine an active lifestyle hours per day. with healthy eating. Step 5 is for those who are able, and wish, to achieve greater health and Children shouldn’t spend more than two hours fitness benefits. a day using electronic media for entertainment (e.g. computer games, TV, internet), particularly »» Step 1 – Think of movement as an during daylight hours. opportunity, not an inconvenience. Where any form of movement of the body is seen Break up long periods of sitting as often as an opportunity for improving health, not as possible. as a timewasting inconvenience. »» Step 2 – Be active every day in as many Young People ways as you can. Make a habit of walking (13-17 years) or cycling instead of using the car, or do At least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous things yourself instead of using labour- physical activity every day is recommended. saving devices. This can be built up throughout the day using »» Step 3 – Put together at least 30 minutes a variety of activities. Incorporating variety of moderate-intensity physical activity provides a range of fun experiences and on most, preferably all, days. You can challenges, and provides an opportunity to accumulate your 30 minutes (or more) learn new skills. Examples include: throughout the day by combining a few »» Incidental activity replacing short car trips shorter sessions of activity of around 10 to with a walk or bike ride. 15 minutes each. »» Moderate activities like brisk walking, »» Step 4 – Do muscle strengthening activities walking the dog, bike riding with friends, on at least 2 days per week. skateboarding and dancing. »» Vigorous activities such as football, netball, soccer, running, swimming laps, mountain bike riding or training for sport. 37 »» Step 5 – If you can, also enjoy some There are five physical activity regular, vigorous activity for extra health recommendations for older Australians: and fitness. This step does not replace 1. Older people should do some form of Steps 1-4. Rather it adds an extra level for physical activity, no matter what their age, those who are able, and wish, to achieve weight, health problems or abilities. greater health and fitness benefits. 2. Older people should be active every day in In addition to the above steps, adults should as many ways as possible, doing a range of minimise the time spent in prolonged sitting. physical activities that incorporate fitness, Make a conscious effort to break up long strength, balance and flexibility. periods of sitting. 3. Older people should accumulate at least Older Australians 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical (65 years and older) activity on most, preferably all, days. It’s never too late to start becoming physically 4. Older people who have stopped physical active, and to feel the associated benefits. activity, or who are starting a new physical “Too old” or “too frail” are not of themselves activity, should start at a level that is reasons for an older person not to undertake easily manageable and gradually build physical activity. up the recommended amount, type and frequency of activity. Most physical activities can be adjusted to accommodate older people with a range of 5. Older people who continue to enjoy a abilities and health problems, including those lifetime of vigorous physical activity should living in residential care facilities. carry on doing so in a manner suited to their capability into later life, provided recommended safety procedures and guidelines are adhered to.

38 Active Living for All 2017-2019 Appendix B – Glossary and Definitions Term Definition accessibility the degree to which the greatest number of people have access to a location, facility, program, open space, and cycle and walk networks. active living incorporating physical activity into daily routines active recreation an activity requiring physical exertion for relaxation, physical health and wellbeing or enjoyment active transport/ travel/ walking, cycling and public transport to get from one location to another for a particular purpose, for example, commuting for a trip to the shops. barrier an obstacle (real or perceived) that prevents someone from accessing a service, facility or program and can include physical barriers as well as attitudinal, social and geographical. body mass index / size a measurement often used to indicate a weight range and classification. Body Mass Index, or BMI, is used as a screening tool for overweight or obesity. built environment man-made environment including buildings, streets, and other man-made structures. compact developments uses less land than traditional developments conducive environments physical characteristics that support and enable physical activity e.g. environments conducive to walking or cycling etc. connected communities neighbourhood with good street networks providing direct routes. density the levels of housing and/or population in a particular place incidental activity unstructured activity taken throughout the day, such as walking for transport, housework, and the performance of activities of daily living. mixed land-use includes a mixture of complementary land uses. moderate-intensity exercise that requires a moderate amount of effort and noticeably increases heart rate physical activity monitoring regular data collection activities that collect an in-depth snapshot of behaviours (e.g. physical activity, sedentary behaviour) or measures (e.g. body size, daily steps) in a population. natural environment all living and non-living things occurring naturally. non-communicable a non-infectious chronic health condition, usually developing over a significant period of time, that can cause diseases death, dysfunction or impaired quality of life. outdoor recreation physical activity in outdoors or natural settings, which provides opportunities to connect individually, in small groups or as a community to the outdoor environment. physical activity any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. physical education the teaching of skills necessary to perform a variety of physical activities, maintain fitness and make decisions about engaging in physical activity as part of a healthy active lifestyle. physical literacy The motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding required to value and take responsibility for engaging in physical activity and sport for life. public open space Land set aside for public enjoyment and protection of unique, environmental, social and cultural values for existing and future generations. Functional space is provided to accommodate sport, nature and recreation functions for the community. prevalence number of proportion of individuals in a community with a given condition and is usually expressed as a percentage. risk factor something that can increase a person’s chances of developing a disease. sedentary lifestyle little or no physical activity incorporated into everyday life. Includes prolonged time spent sitting or lying down. sport an activity involving physical exertion and skill as the primary focus, with elements of competition (e.g. rules) strength / resistance a form of physical activity designed to improve muscular fitness by exercising muscles or a muscle group training against external resistance. Free weights (e.g. dumbbells), machines, or the person’s own body weight are common methods of external resistance. surveillance ongoing data collection to provide trend data and document change over time. travel demand a variety of initiatives that address transport demand and change user’s modes of transport, time of travel or amount of travel urbanisation / sprawl the spread of urban areas outwards of a city into its outskirts and into rural lands. vigorous-intensity exercise that requires a large amount of effort and causes rapid breathing and a substantial increase in heart physical activity rate. 39walkability / bikeability a guide to how easy it is to walk or cycle in an area e.g. quality of paths, safety etc. Appendix C – References 1. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Physical activity. Retrieved 16. Tomlin, S. Joyce, S. Radomiljac, A. (2016) Health and Wellbeing on the 06/10/2016, from http:www.who.int/topics/physical_ of Children in Western Australia in 2015, overview and trends. activity/en Perth, Western Australia: Department of Health. 2. School Curriculum and Standards Authority. (n.d.). Health 17. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2013). Australian and Physical Education syllabus – Glossary. Perth, Australia: Health Survey: Physical Activity, 2011-12. Catalogue no. Government of Western Australia. p.7. 6364.0. Canberra, Australia. Retrieved on 09/02/17, 3. Department of Health. (2011). Definitions. Retrieved on the from http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/ 10/10/2016, from http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ Lookup/4364.0.55.004Chapter1002011-12 publications/publishing.nsf/Content/phd-physical-rec-older- 18. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2011). Estimates of Aboriginal disc~Definitions and Torres Strait Islander Australians, June 2011. Catalogue no 4. World Health Organization. (n.d.). What is Moderate-intensity 3238.0. Canberra, Australia. Retrieved on 01/11/16, from http:// and Vigorous-intensity Physical Activity?. Retrieved on the www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/mf/3238.0.55.001 10/10/2016, from http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/ 19. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2012). Sports and Physical physical_activity_intensity/en Recreation: A Statistical Overview, Australia, 2012. Catalogue 5. Ibid. no. 4156.0, Canberra, Australia. Retrieved on 01/11/16 from http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Products/ 6. Shahan D, et al. (2016). Health Benefits from Nature CA6DAC328F823FC3CA257AD9000E2642 Experiences Depend on Dose. Retrieved on the 23/11/2016, from http://www.nature.com/articles/srep28551 20. Office of Multicultural Interests. (2013). Cultural Diversity in Western Australia: A Demographic Profile, Perth, Australia: 7. Garrard J. (2011) Active Travel to School: Literature Review. Government of Western Australia. Retrieved on 6/12/2016, from http://www.timetotalk.act. gov.au/storage/Active%20travel%20to%20school%20 21. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2012). Participation in Sport Literature%20Review.pdf and Physical Recreation, Australia 2012. Catalogue no. 4156.0, Canberra, Australia. Retrieved on 01/11/16, from http://www. 8. Department of Health. (2014). Australia’s Physical Activity abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Products/ 099384EA8C039C Guidelines for Australians. Retrieved on the 07/10/2016, 91CA257AD9000E26A7 from http:www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/ content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines 22. Ibid. 9. Lee I, et al. (2012). Effect of physical activity on major non- 23. Tomlin S, Joyce S, Radomiljac A. (2016). Health and wellbeing communicable diseases worldwide: an analysis of burden of of adults in Western Australia 2015, Overview and Trends. disease and life expectancy. The Lancet, 380: p. 219-29. Perth, Australia: Department of Health. 10. World Health Organization. (2013). Global action plan for the 24. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2012). Australian Health prevention and control of non-communicable diseases 2013- Survey: Physical Activity, 2011-12. Catalogue no. 4364.0. 2020. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization. Canberra, Australia. Retrieved on 01/11/2016, from http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Lookup/ 11. Medibank Private. (2008). The cost of physical activity. 462FBA87B642FCA4CA257BAC0015F3CE Australia: Medibank Private Publications. p.7. 25. Department of Transport (2006). Perth and Regions Travel 12. Tanamas S, et al. (2013). Ausdiab. (2012). The Australian Survey (PARTS) 2002-2006. Perth, Australia: Western Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle Study. Melbourne, Australia: Australian Government. Baker IDI Heart and Disease Institute. 26. Data Analysis Australia. (2006). Perth and Regional Travel 13. Tomlin S, Joyce S, Radomiljac, A. (2016). Health and wellbeing Survey. WA Department of Planning. of adults in Western Australia 2015, Overview and Trends. Perth, Western Australia: Department of Health. 27. Department of Sport and Recreation. (2008). Benefits of Physical Activity: facts and stats. Perth, Australia: Western 14. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2013). Australian Health Australian Government. Survey: Physical Activity, 2011-12. Catalogue no. 4364.0. Canberra, Australia. Retrieved on 09/02/17, from http:// 28. Department of Transport. (2016). Travel Demand Management www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Latestproducts/ Plan, Transport @ 3.5 million. Perth, Australia: Western 7838D948C8549693CA257BAC0015F644 Australian Government. 15. Aviroop B, et al. (2015). Sedentary Time and Its Association 29. Giles-Corti B, Kelty S, Zubrick S and Villanueva K. (2009). with Risk for Disease Incidence, Mortality, and Hospitalization How important is the built environment? Perth, Australia: in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Annals of Centre for the Built Environment and Health, UWA, Centre for Internal Medicine 162(2), p123-132. Development Health, Curtin University and Telethon Institute.

40 Active Living for All 2017-2019 Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries 246 Vincent Street, Leederville WA 6007 PO Box 329, Leederville WA 6903 Tel: 08 9492 9700

ISBN: 978-1-921648-54-0