Public Health Association of Australia
Annual Report
1 July 2015 – 30 June 2016
PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Contents
Introduction ...... 3 The Board ...... 4 Staff ...... 5 President’s Report ...... 6 Vice-President (Development) Report ...... 8 Vice-President (Policy) Report ...... 9 Vice President (Finance) Report ...... 10 Vice President (Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander) Report ...... 12 CEO Report ...... 14 Membership ...... 16 Policy ...... 17 Submissions to Government ...... 18 Media ...... 20 Conferences ...... 33 Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health (ANZJPH) ...... 40 Stakeholder Engagement & Alliances ...... 42 Branch Reports ...... 44 Special Interest Group Reports ...... 57 Public Health Education and Research Trust ...... 74 Public Health Research Advisory Group ...... 74 PHAA Financial Statements ...... 75
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 2 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Introduction
The Public Health Association of Australia Incorporated (PHAA) provides a forum for the exchange of ideas, knowledge and information on public health. The Association is also involved in advocacy for public health policy, capacity building, development, research and training.
PHAA has Branches in every state and territory. Membership spans the health spectrum and over 40 public health related occupations are represented. PHAA has seventeen Special Interest Groups for members to meet with those who have similar interests and passions, to exchange information and to develop policy positions and papers.
As PHAA has a national and multidisciplinary perspective on public health issues it is able to make a major contribution to the public health debate in Australia through representation on government boards, committees and other decision-making bodies such as the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. PHAA members also sit on many state and territory committees contributing to a broad spectrum of public health issues. Membership is open to any person who is supportive of the objects of the Association.
PHAA members contribute to the development and execution of public health policy in Australia, and in particular bring their experience and expertise to the development of policies for the Association. These policies are developed by the appropriate Special Interest Groups, reviewed by the broader membership and finalised at the annual general meeting of the membership. When endorsed these policies become the basis for public health action for the Association.
PHAA has links with public health associations world-wide and is an active member of the World Federation of Public Health Associations and also provides leadership and links closely with a network of Australian public health organisations. The Association produces a bi-monthly academic-refereed journal, the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, which disseminates public health research and ideas throughout Australia and internationally. PHAA undertakes project and conference work on issues such as immunisation, justice health, public health workforce and training and knowledge development in health promotion.
The PHAA is an organisation dedicated to the promotion of public health. It is a forum through which those interested in health can develop professional and academic networks.
The PHAA is guided by its Constitution, Vision, Mission and by the Strategic Plan (currently under revision). This report is designed to be an assessment of achievements of the Association from the period of 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 3 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
The Board (as at 30 June 2016)
President Branch President Representative Professor Heather Yeatman Dr Paul Gardiner
Vice-President (Finance) Branch President Representative Associate Professor Richard Gillian Mangan Franklin
Special Interest Group Convenor Vice-President (Policy) Representative Professor Marion Carey Julia Stafford
Vice-President (Aboriginal Special Interest Group Convenor and Torres Strait Islander Representative Health) Dr Peter Tait Ms Carmen Parter
Vice-President (Development) Chief Executive Officer David Templeman Adjunct Professor Michael Moore
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 4 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Staff (as at 30 June 2016)
Operations and Finance Chief Executive Officer Manager Adjunct Professor Michael Moore Anne Brown
Senior Policy Officer Senior Policy Officer Danielle Dalla Alexandra Culloden
Events and Capacity Building Communications and Officer Engagement Officer Nicole Rutter Sophie Brown
Executive Administration and Executive and Projects Membership Officer Coordinator Rodrigo Paramo Gabrielle O’Reilly
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 5 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
President’s Report
In this my final report as President of the Association, I continue to be reminded of the importance of our work to advance public health, while at the same time ensuring we remain viable and proactive as an organisation.
The year started with a strong focus on collective public health actions at the successful triennial Public Health Congress in Hobart. I’d like to acknowledge the collegiality and hard work of not only our own members, but also those of our partner organisations, the Australia Health Promotion Association, the Australian Epidemiology Association and the Australasian Faculty of Public Health Medicine. The Congress statement confirmed our commitments to addressing health inequities, building a stronger workforce, and the grand challenges of planetary health, climate change, economics, trade agreements and global health. These commitments will be carried forward in the on-going work of the Association and to the World Congress on Public Health in 2017.
The PHAA partnered with the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association to host a National Primary Health Care conference in November 2015, and the beginning of 2016 included the Second National Complex Needs and 15th National Immunisation conferences. These activities have the important roles of supporting our public health workforce and profiling leading public health research and practice.
The uncertain environments within which the PHAA operates continued during the year, making clear advancements in public health more elusive. The Association took the opportunity to reflect on its budgetary situation to ensure stability going forward, on the operations of the office and on our strategic plans going forward. The PHAA office now has a new balance of skills and expertise that will ensure we remain viable, contemporary and actively engaged in, and leading, public health debates and action. We have re-focussed on how our branches and special interest groups can be appropriately supported. And a productive face-to-face meeting in February 2015 also worked to reset our strategic plans for the next few years.
The dedication, strong commitment and efforts of our Board, Branch Presidents and Executives, and SIG Chairs and executives, continue to underpin the amazing contributions made by the PHAA. I would like to thank you all for the volunteer support and contributions you provide to our organisation. Without you our Association would not exist and it has been a privilege to serve as your President for the last 3.5 years.
Our PHAA staff deserve strong mention, both those who were with us in the first part of this year’s report and those who have joined us in 2016. Their commitment, hard work and willingness to take on new challenges are of the highest order. I give my thanks to all the staff for your support, hard work and good cheer.
Finally I’d like to acknowledge Michael Moore, our CEO. Along with his responsibilities to PHAA, he now is the President of the World Federation of Public Health Associations. This strategic role will support the
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 6 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
PHAA to remain at the leading edge of global public health actions and strengthen our links in our region and further afield. His expertise and tireless actions have supported the Association’s strategic public health agenda. On behalf of the PHAA I thank Michael for his generosity of time, strategic and business acumen, good will and humour.
The PHAA is in a strong position as an organisation and as the leading advocate for public health in Australia. It has been a privilege to be PHAA’s President. I encourage you to read the Annual report for more detail of the Association’s work during the year and to join in the action to support and advance future public health outcomes.
Professor Heather Yeatman – Board President
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 7 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Vice-President (Development) Report
In writing this Report during the 2016 Federal Election campaign, I’m reflecting on last year’s Annual report and congratulate the PHAA for its strong and committed leadership at the forefront of health reform. We can only live in hope to see a post-election Government embrace a serious platform of preventive health policies which are backed up with realistic investment.
Health and community wellbeing is not about a political ‘ping pong’ match. We need to see genuine understanding and acceptance that investment in public health will reduce the growing burden on our hospital systems. We have a duty of care and educational responsibility to ensure our political leadership is better informed in the context of policy priorities for consideration by Government.
I’m encouraged that PHAA has taken a very deliberate step in the Federal Election focussing on our three major initiatives around prevention, protection and promotion (3Ps), mirroring those actively advanced by the World Federation of Public Health Associations.
Our renewed PHAA Strategic Plan will have a clear focus around these priorities providing a strategic helicopter perspective backed up by a strong business and operational/implementation plan. This also includes all aspects of the social determinants of health including environmental and ecological impacts.
As a major peak body and having achieved important recognition of our advocacy, we need to maintain a collective impact approach, bringing together many peaks and stakeholders in deciding on the core priorities for the betterment of community wellbeing and health need.
One only has to consider the key contributors to our burden of disease, a large proportion which can be prevented in terms of reducing risk factors as covered in PHAA’s 3Ps approach. Essentially, these haven’t changed greatly with the greatest burden coming from tobacco use, alcohol use and a general lack of physical activity and obesity. It is worthy to note that the 2007 National Preventative Health Taskforce initiated by the then Rudd Government reinforced these—we clearly have a long way to go!
Finally, in all of our work the critical health care support for our First Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples must remain high on all agenda.
My time as a Board Member of PHAA has been a very rewarding experience—thank you, especially to the high performing and professional PHAA staff team.
David Templeman, Vice- President (Development)
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 8 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Vice-President (Policy) Report
One of the many strengths of the PHAA is its extensive suite of policies, developed by and in consultation with members. These allow us to advocate effectively and in a timely way for public health in the public and political spheres. It is important that their foundation is a solid evidence base and that they are kept up to date.
Last year we introduced some changes to the Policy Protocol which were designed to make our policies even better. The focus has been on working to make them shorter and more succinct, with the option of background papers where more extensive detail is needed. This makes them easier to use and to update. While some further work is needed to bring all policies up to the optimal format, excellent progress has been made and the hard work of the members and SIGs is much appreciated.
The 2015 AGM saw twenty two new or revised policies being presented for endorsement after consultation with members with topics ranging from sustainable food production and medical cannabis to responsible marketing to children.
The 2016 AGM will see a range of revised policies from injury prevention and domestic violence to nuclear weapons and a sustainable population policy. The broadening range of policies relating to health and sustainability issues is in keeping with PHAA’s focus on ecological as well as social determinants of health.
After four years in the position it is time for me to step down and welcome the incoming Vice-President Policy, who I am sure will bring new ideas and enthusiasm to the role. It has been an honour to be part of the policy development work of the PHAA and to have served on its Board. I would like to thank the current and former office staff members for all their hard work and commitment, and also the other Board members. Particular thanks goes to President Heather Yeatman and CEO Michael Moore who have helped steer the PHAA ship so admirably. The Public Health Association of Australia has a bright future driven by the expertise and enthusiasm of its members, continuing to provide important advocacy for the health of our communities.
Associate Professor Marion Carey, Vice- President (Policy)
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 9 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Vice President (Finance) Report
This section provides a summary of the Association’s financial performance for the financial year 2015-16 and should be read in conjunction with the Association’s Financial Report for the year ended 30 June 2016.
2015-16 was a positive year for the Association with a net operating surplus of $356,341. This surplus was made possible thanks to the hard work of staff in the national office, and a one-off injection of working capital towards primary health care from AHHA, together with the consolidation of the monies from the Public Health Education Research Trust into the PHAA accounts.
The 2015- 16 financial year has been a year of challenges for the association including a major restructure of the national office, as well as the ongoing wider changes in sector and government.
The PHAA is a small to medium sized business and this year had over $2.4m in revenue and $2.1m in expenses. Ensuring the financial security of the organisation is a challenge and as such I would like to thank Anne Brown for her work behind the scenes in ensuring the smooth financial running of the association.
This financial year we took a new approach to budgeting, which included a normal budget and a worst case scenario (a break even budget and does not include any funds which have not been guaranteed such as grants or sponsorship). I am proposing that this continue to be a normal process of how PHAA budget as it allows for an accurate assessment at the time of putting together the budget of what income we can be certain of receiving and what is not certain and change our expenditure accordingly.
The positive outcome from the 2015-16 financial year will be used to increase our overall equity and for small one-off project in coming years.
The 2016-17 financial year will see PHAA run three National conferences and involvement in one International Conference; Annual Conference (September 2016 in Alice Springs), National Primary Health Care Conference (November 16 in Melbourne), World Congress on Public Health Conference (April 2017 in Melbourne) and the Communicable Disease Control Conference (June 2017 in Melbourne). The World Congress on Public Health is being managed by an external Professional Conference Organiser (PCO) and is anticipated to make a small profit for PHAA if the minimum numbers are met of 3000 attendees. PHAA has also been successful in gaining the Communicable Disease Control Conference again for 2017 to run in the off year to the bi-annual National Immunisation Conference.
Membership is one of our consistent and stable sources of income and while membership is strong there was little change to member numbers from the previous financial year.
The other major change is the way the journal is being run with it becoming open access, the impact to the finances is minimal.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 10 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Operating results The Association’s Income Statement for the 2015-16 reports an audited operating surplus of $356,341 compared to an operating deficit of $242,876 in 2014-15, a surplus of $71,000 in 2013-14, a loss of $228,805 in 2012-13 of and surpluses of $279,000 in 2010-11 and $70,000 in 2011.
Historical View of PHAA budget over last seven years Year 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 Actual Actual Actual Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Revenue 1,250 2,158 1,947 1,379 1,954 1,738 2,488 Expense 1,303 1,897 1,877 1,607 1,883 1,980 2,132 Net Operating -53 279 70 -228 71 -242 356 Surplus/Deficit
There are some important considerations to take into account when looking at the financial performance of the PHAA over this period. This is due to the income generated due to the successful Immunisation conference and it is expected that by adding in additional conferences (bi-annual Communicable Diseases Conference and annual Primary Health Care Conference) that this cyclical nature of the associations surplus/deficit will disappear.
Balance sheet The PHAA’s Audited Net Assets at 30 June 2016 of $1,072,015 are up from the previous year when the net assets were $715,674. A copy of the balance sheet as at 30 June 2016 with comparative 2015 figures is included in the Association’s Audited Financial Report attached at the end of this annual report.
Richard Franklin, Vice President (Finance)
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 11 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Vice President (Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander) Report
2015/16 saw the appointment of Adjunct Associate Professor Carmen Parter to the role of the PHAA Vice President (VP) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues commencing in September 2015. Carmen represents the second person to fulfil this strategic role on the PHAA Board whose primary responsibility is to advise on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.
After a comprehensive hand-over from Vanessa Lee, the inaugural PHAA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander VP, work continued to strengthen the activities undertaken in the previous four years. This has involved the continuation of key strategic relationships, maintaining the visibility of the PHAA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander VP functions, advocating for the need to address the inequalities and inequities being experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples relating to a range of issues, providing advice into PHAA policy positions and communicating policy positions through a range of mediums in support of PHAA directions and policy positions.
Specifically, activities for 2015/16 have involved: • Continued participation in the work of the Close the Gap (CTG) campaign that involved
o A public statement in the form of a media-release supporting the Government’s National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan - Implementation Plan launched on Thursday 22 October 2015
o Input into the 2016 CTG Campaign Draft report and its recommendations that also included attending the Parliamentary event in February 2016
o A range of initiatives in the lead up to the July 2016 federal election and in particular the Redfern Statement and Congress of First Nations Planning Summit with peak national bodies drawn from across Australia. • Attended and facilitated a session at the November 2016 Complex Needs Conference held in Canberra • A key participant in the Australian Health Care Reform Alliance 7th National Health Reform Summit in February 2016 to present on the work of the PHAA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health issues and highlighting policy gaps • Attended the PHAA Board, Branch and SIG February 2016 Face-to-Face planning meeting where a number of initiatives evolved including the recognition for a Reconciliation Action Plan • Supported PHAA contributions to debates in regards to a range of issues such as the justice and disability targets being included in the closing the gap commitments • Created collaborative opportunities between the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Special Interest Group and the VP to work on joint initiatives and driving a model of collaborative working practices
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 12 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Supporting provision of cultural advice to the National World Congress Organising Committee about First Nations events and protocols for the impending April 2017 International conference.
Anticipated priorities for next 12 months includes supporting the development of a PHAA Reconciliation Action Plan, a terminology checklist and creating opportunities to draw on the strengths of PHAA members in support of close the gap.
A significant challenge of the PHAA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander VP role is the scope of activities that the position can potentially find itself taking on. Nonetheless, critical to the success of this role is building the cultural capacity of the organisation and creating collaborative working relationships throughout PHAA’s governance structures.
Carmen Parter, Vice President (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander)
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 13 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
CEO Report
Health protection, promotion and prevention are the key elements of the PHAA’s new strategic planning process. These elements are taken from the Global Charter for the Public’s Health (the Charter) which was released in 2016. The Charter is specifically written to encompass the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is the work of the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) in collaboration and at the request of the World Health Organization.
The challenge of the Charter is to ask how the global public health community should position itself to influence all of the key actors across the entire spectrum of public health issues, whether in government, civil society, or industry. The key elements of protection, prevention and promotion are accompanied by four enablers: good governance, information, advocacy and capacity building.
These elements and the enablers have assisted the staff in the National Office and the Board to reframe the work of the PHAA in the context of the SDGs, the WFPHA and WHO. In this light, there has been a significant amount of work undertaken to develop our strategic plan by our Board, the National Office, the Branches, our Special Interest Groups and by individual members in a range of ways to develop a new and fresh vision for the PHAA.
As part of this change of direction the National Office has been through considerable upheaval with the loss of a number of staff who deserve thanks for their long years of dedicated commitment and hard work for the PHAA.
The WFPHA recognised the PHAA’s capacity to run the World Congress on Public Health in 2017, a year which also marks the 50th Anniversary of the WFPHA. The time and effort of many of our members and particularly of Past-President Helen Keleher in initially planning and now operating as the Convenor of the Congress for the 3-7 April, 2017 is appreciated. The Congress certainly provides an opportunity for public health to move to centre ground in Australia, to learn from overseas experience and to encourage governments in all of our jurisdictions and in New Zealand to increase priority and funding towards public health.
Our myriad of partners have made the work of the PHAA much more effective. The PHAA has a MoU with the Australian Health Care and Hospitals Association (AHHA), we work with a range of partners on the World Congress of Public Health including the Australian Health Promotion Association (AHPA), the Australasian Epidemiologists Association (AEA), the Australian Women’s Health Network (AWHN), the Public Health Association of New Zealand (PHANZ) and the Australasian Faculty of Public Health Medicine (AFPHM). Additionally, the PHAA has taken leading roles in organisations such as the Australian Health Care Reform Association (AHCRA), the Social Determinants of Health Alliance (SDOHA) and continues to work in an informal way with quite a number of other alliances.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 14 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Of particular pride for all members of the PHAA should be the number and quality of submissions that have been made to parliamentary and government inquiries, participation of our staff and members on a range of boards and the continuing involvement of the PHAA across a wide spectrum of public health issues. Even a cursory glance at the submissions section of the PHAA website will illustrate the work and involvement that has been done to influence policy for a healthier society.
These submissions are possible through the work done by so many of our members in developing our policies. The submissions and work undertaken by the PHAA is consistent with the principles of the PHAA and, through the policy process, are academically sound. The policies form the backbone of PHAA’s advocacy ability as they provide a strong scientific evidence base for the positions that are adopted by the Association. The care that is taken in their preparation is fundamental to the PHAA’s credibility. The work that Marion Carey, Vice President (Policy), has put into these over her two terms is extensive and pays dividends. The meetings and collaborations that have been developed take into account the work that has been achieved through this process.
The National Office has been through significant change over the last year however looking forward to the coming 12 months I see great opportunities with the new staff to use our advocacy and policy skills to deliver a healthier and more equitable community.
Michael Moore, Chief Executive Officer
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 15 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Membership
Membership over the period 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2016
2012-2013 2013-2014 Total Total New Total Total New Month Members Members Students Month Members Members Students Jul-12 1981 82 33 Jul-13 1915 56 31 Aug-12 2033 57 26 Aug-13 1973 58 38 Sep-12 1558 54 21 Sep-13 1512 64 34 Oct-12 1661 40 24 Oct-13 1622 26 10 Nov-12 1747 31 10 Nov-13 1668 24 11 Dec-12 1829 20 9 Dec-13 1709 27 12 2013 2014 Jan-13 1881 36 6 Jan-14 1785 44 18 Feb-13 1945 47 20 Feb-14 1842 50 21 Mar-13 2002 55 33 Mar-14 1910 55 30 Apr-13 1740 42 27 Apr-14 1666 25 13 May-13 1785 36 19 May-14 1722 58 33 Jun-13 1824 36 10 Jun-14 1804 58 23 2014-2015 2015-2016 Total Total New Total Total New Month Members Members Students Month Members Members Students Jul-14 1896 74 37 Jul-15 1368 49 22 Aug-14 1964 62 28 Aug-15 1516 44 16 Sep-14 1636 55 16 Sep-15 1564 51 15 Oct-14 1698 40 19 Oct-15 1609 52 18 Nov-14 1735 28 8 Nov-15 1645 19 5 Dec-14 1796 28 9 Dec-15 1658 19 7 2015 2016 Jan-15 1859 41 18 Jan-16 Feb-15 1920 48 27 Feb-16 1542 87 46 Mar-15 1998 61 43 Mar-16 1583 19 9 Apr-15 1791 37 23 Apr-16 1647 41 22 May-15 1831 26 19 May-16 1717 41 22 Jun-15 1877 50 18 Jun-16 1709 71 32
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 16 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Policy
The following is a list of the PHAA policies that were endorsed in 2015 according to the rolling three-yearly policy renewal program. All current versions of the policies can be found on the PHAA website at: http://www.phaa.net.au/advocacy-policy/policies-position-statements
1. REVISED: Responsible Advertising Policy 2. REVISED: HIV-AIDS Policy 3. REVISED: Health Effects of Fossil Fuels Policy 4. REVISED: Immunisation Policy 5. NEW Rare Earth Elements Policy 6. REVISED: Fall Injury Prevention in Older People Policy 7. REVISED: Environmental Chemical Exposures and Human Health Policy 8. REVISED: Firearms Injury Policy 9. REVISED: Refugee Health Policy 10. REVISED: Women's Health and Overseas Aid Programs Policy 11. REVISED: Mental Health Policy 12. REVISED: Trade Agreements and Health Policy 13. REVISED: Gender and Health Policy 14. REVISED: Hepatitis Policy 15. REVISED: Marketing of Food & Beverages to Children 16. NEW: Medicinal Cannabis Policy 17. NEW: Ecologically Sustainable Diets Policy 18. NEW: The Food System & Environmental Impacts Policy 19. NEW: Global Warming, the Food System and Food Security Policy 20. NEW: Private Health Insurance Policy 21. REVISED: Skin Cancer Prevention Policy
The following the list of PHAA policies being considered in 2016 for review:
1. Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health SIG - Substance Use Policy 2. ASIG - Alcohol Policy 3. E&ESIG - Ecologically Sustainable Population for Australia Policy 4. E&ESIG - Ecologically Sustainable Human Society Policy 5. E&ESIG - Limits to Growth & Public Health Policy 6. E&ESIG - Outdoor Air Quality Policy 7. E&ESIG - Nuclear Industry Policy 8. E&ESIG - Preparing for Peak Oil Policy 9. FANSIG - Food, Nutrition and Health Policy
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 17 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
10. FANSIG - Genetically Modified Foods Policy 11. FANSIG - Promoting Healthy Weight Policy 12. FANSIG, DAA & ARC - Food Security for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Policy 13. HPSIG - Illicit Drugs Policy 14. IHSIG - Maternal Mortality, Social Determinants of Health, MDGs in Asia Policy 15. IPSIG - Hot Tap Water Temperature and Scalds Policy 16. IPSIG - Injury Prevention & Safety Promotion Policy 17. JHSIG - Exposure to Second-hand Smoke Policy 18. JHSIG - Incarceration of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples Policy 19. JHSIG - Pharmaceutical Drug Misuse Policy 20. JHSIG - Prisoner Health Policy 21. ONESIG - One Health Policy 22. PESIG - Health Inequities Policy 23. PHCSIG - Gambling Industry Funding Policy 24. WHSIG - Breastfeeding Policy 25. WHSIG - Domestic & Family Violence Policy 26. WHSIG - Preconception Health & Fertility Policy
Final drafts of the policies under review will be taken to the PHAA Annual General Meeting in September 2016 to be endorsed.
Submissions to Government
The provision of formal submissions to Government forms as part of PHAA’s strategy to ensure that policy and advocacy outcomes developed on key public health issues are communicated to Government. The following formal submissions were developed and provided by the PHAA to government, parliamentary committees and other relevant bodies during the reporting period. This list is not exhaustive and does not include less formal representations - such as correspondence, petitions etc. – but does demonstrate the range and scope of PHAA submissions throughout the reporting period.
• Election Priorities 2016 June 2016 • Letter to QLD MPs re abortion law reform • Open Letter - a call to all political leaders to put safety first in family law May 2016 • Private Health Insurance Consultations 2015-16 • Scheduling of Ulipristal Acetate (EllaOne) • Independent Review of NSW Liquor Law Reforms - April 2016 • Medicinal Cannabis in Queensland: Draft Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016 Implementing reforms to the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment April 2016 Scheme (NICNAS)
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 18 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Joint FARE & PHAA submission on the need for a nationally consistent approach to alcohol • Implementing Reforms to the Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) - Consultation Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation Waste Management March 2016 Facilities' Extension and Upgrade • Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement • Submission to Inquiry into Domestic Violence and Gender Inequality • Australian Climate Change Authority Special Review on Australia's Climate Goals and February Policies 2016 • Australian-European Union Free Trade Agreement January • South Australian Liquor Licencing 2016 • Queensland Alcohol Fuelled Violence Bill • Public Health Association of Australia submission to the Commonwealth on Private Health December Insurance 2015 • Letter to Foreign Minister Julie Bishop November • Food and drink marketing aimed at children in Canberra 2015 • Food and drink marketing aimed at children in Canberra • Public Health Association of Australia submission on Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Amendment (Standing) Bill 2015 • Public Health Association of Australia Submission on the Food Standards Australia New October Zealand Amendment (Forum on Food Regulation and Other Measures) Bill 2015 2015 • Public Health Association of Australia submission to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee: Social Services Legislation Amendment (No Jab, No Pay) Bill 2015 • Signed on a joint statement calling for Australia’s ratification of the OPCAT • Submission on the Martin Place Siege Review • Public Health Research Advisory Group Submission on behalf of both the Public Health September Association of Australia (PHAA) and the Council of Public Health Institutions of Australia 2015 (CAPHIA) on the Review of Research policy and Funding Arrangements 2015 • Submission on the proposed Health (Patient Privacy) Amendment Bill 2015 in the Australian Capital Territory • Submission to the Hazelwood Mine Fire Enquiry • Public Health Association of Australia and the Medical Association for Prevention of War Australia joint Submission to the Nuclear Fuel Cycle Royal Commission August 2015 • Submission to the Senate Standing Committees on Economics Inquiry into personal choice and community impacts • Submission to the Select Committee on E-Cigarettes • Letter to VIC Health Minister re Public Health and Wellbeing Amendment • Signed on statement of support of Adam Goodes coordinated by the Close the Gap campaign for Indigenous Health Equality • Public Health Association of Australia submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Law Enforcement’s Inquiry into crystal methamphetamine (ice) July 2015 • Public Health Association of Australia Submission on Rio Tinto’s Warkworth Mine Expansion, Hunter Valley, NSW • Submission to the Inquiry into best practice in chronic disease prevention and management in primary health care
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 19 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Media
During the 2015-16 year, PHAA has been working hard to expand and build upon the media profile of the association. The new Communications officer has taken over management of media releases, Intouch, eBulletin and social media. Since implementing the new strategy in January 2016, Facebook likes have increased by 900% and the new social media account on LinkedIn, established in April 2016 has gained 100 followers. During this time, the PHAA Twitter account has gained 982 followers –a 22% increase. Unfortunately data for the end of 2015 was not been recorded so only starting numbers were available as an evaluation point. Below are some examples of successful communication activities that took place in 2016.
Public Health Week
A successful Twitter discussion was run over Public Health Week 4 – 8 April 2016 using the hashtag #publichealthweek. Over 92 million impressions were made over the 5 day period with 2861 tweets and 1951 participants. PHAA contributed 42 tweets over the 5 days – about one tweet per hour. PHAA coincided the twitter discussion with Facebook (note Facebook like increase during the period).
PHAA staff changed their signatures to reflect Public Health Week. It was published in the Intouch and the eBulletin.
Ebulletin
In April 2016 the PHAA weekly eBulletin was introduced. The template was designed by a graphic designer and IVT imported the design into the PHAA website. The eBulletin is a great addition to PHAA’s communications with members and stakeholders.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 20 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Facebook:
Though established in 2014-15, PHAA Facebook was relatively inactive until January 2016. Since January, relevant articles, media release, research etc have been posted every day to increase reach and likes and broaden the reach of public health news and issues amongst a previously untapped audience. As you can see in the section below, the reach increased dramatically once posts became regular. Facebook attracts more community minded individuals than Twitter. Therefore articles on food nutrition, physical activity, women’s health and immunisation did particularly well. PHAA’s Facebook demographics are primarily women aged 25 – 34 years. Many of these women are mothers and articles on children’s health were also popular and attracted more likes on the PHAA Facebook page.
Over Public Health Week the Facebook page gained over 15 likes on one day. Other popular posts include: • New landmark 20-year study from The University of Melbourne shows regular physical activity is the number one protector against cognitive decline • AHHA Health Policy Scorecard • Alcohol expenditure distribution by FARE LIKES - 1 July 2015: 98 likes 30 June 2016: 947 likes = 907% increase
Public Health Week 4 – 8 April 2016
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 21 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Reach
New landmark 20-year study from The University of Melbourne shows regular physical activity is the number one protector against cognitive decline - Public Health Week 4 – 8 April 2016 https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/exercising-in- middle-age-can-save-your-memory-later
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 22 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Top Posts:
Date Post Reach Likes Shares 14 June 2016 New landmark 20-year study from The University of 5410 145 26 Melbourne shows regular physical activity is the number one protector against cognitive decline https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/exercising-in- middle-age-can-save-your-memory-later 25 July 2016 Register now for the rare opportunity to attend the joint 4969 58 1 BOOSTED for PHAA 44th Annual and 20th Chronic Diseases Network $150 Conference in Alice Springs! Discover how public health approaches for chronic disease can change the world. Earlybird registrations close on 31 July 2016. https://phaa.eventsair.com/QuickEventWebsitePortal/ph aa-cdn-conference/eis/ExtraContent/ContentPage3 20 June 2016 The Australian Healthcare & Hospitals Association has 4664 68 23 released an Election 2016 Health Policy scorecard of the major national parties health policies. https://ahha.asn.au/federal-election-2016 17 May 2016 "The anti-vaccination movement encourages parents to 3887 73 13 "do your own research", however doing "research" by reading web-pages is not comparable to actual research done by scientists who work hard to protect us all from dangerous and debilitating disease." http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2016/05/15/anti- vaxxer-arguments-taken-down-in-scorching-sex-party- letter/?ncid=tweetlnkauhpmg00000001 28 April 2016 Last chance to book earlybird registrations for the 15th 3815 27 5 BOOSTED for National Immunisation Conference in Brisbane, QLD 7 - 9 $130 June 2016. Earlybird closes Friday 29 April 2016.
This is a great chance to network and learn about innovative research and service delivery in a collaborative setting. Join the conversation using #NIC2016 and be part of the jigsaw – fitting the pieces two decades on. https://phaa.eventsair.com/QuickEventWebsitePortal/15 th-national-immunisation- conference/15nicwebsite/ExtraContent/ContentPage3
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 23 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Audience demographics: 75% female 25% male
Age demographics • 25 – 34 years - 31% • 18 – 24 years – 16% • 35 – 44 years – 15%
Top cities: • Melbourne, VIC – 179 • Perth, WA – 89 • Sydney, NSW – 44 • Canberra, ACT – 40
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 24 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Twitter:
Twitter is a powerful social media tool and a great way to advocate on public health issues. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health individuals and organisations are particularly vocal on Twitter so this is a great way for PHAA to engage in those issues and with the audience. PHAA tweet on a wide variety of topics including tobacco, prevention, food and nutrition, sugar tax, environment, immunisation and child health.
This was the first year PHAA ran a hashtag for the 15th National Immunisation Conference using #NIC2016. PHAA was the primary tweeter and the Conference gained over 3 million impressions over three days. PHAA will continue to tweet on the Conferences PHAA is hosting. Coming up PHAA has registered hashtags for the Annual Conference (#PHAACDN2016), National Primary Health Care Conference (#NPHC2016), World Congress on Public Health 2017 (#WCPH2017) and Global Alcohol Policy Conference 2017 (#GAPC2017).
The twitter profile will build as PHAA engages more prominent organisations and individuals on a regular basis. Twitter is a great way to stay up to date with important news stories and research. PHAA can be part of the conversation on twitter.
FOLLOWERS - 27 January 2016: 4407 30 June 2016: 5389 = 22% increase.
Audience demographics: 71% female 29% male
Top states: • 30% - Victoria • 25% - New South Wales • 11% - Queensland • 7% - Western Australia • 6% - South Australia • 4% - Australian Capital Territory
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 25 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Top Tweets:
Date Tweet Impressions Retweets Likes Link Clicks 31 May Congratulations New Zealand for introducing 17129 98 131 669 2016 plain packaging on tobacco products on #WorldNoTobaccoDay http://yhoo.it/1RHq8XE 18 June PHAA Media Release: @_PHAA_ welcomes 7333 67 46 52 2016 comprehensive Labor prevention policy http://bit.ly/23haTwF pic.twitter.com/5UJyK0bGFN 3 May Investing in prevention will inject money back 7030 44 28 - 2016 into the economy and improve the overall health of the Australian population #Budget2016 22 June Today is the first day of #publichealthweek! 7004 41 19 2 2016 DAY ONE: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health. Follow @_PHAA_ pic.twitter.com/A9Tp1GtHJu 31 May It's World No Tobacco Day! Let's get the rest 6533 27 22 - 2016 of the world to follow Australia's lead and introduce plain packaging #WorldNoTobaccoDay 7 March The @ConversationEDU's new cancer map 6252 11 3 60 2016 helps people identify how lifestyle impacts the risk of developing cancer bit.ly/1SsEkcc 3 May Calling all students to submit a 1000 word 6066 33 15 30 2016 essay on public health & chronic disease by 19/6 bit.ly/24uGM5L pic.twitter.com/2V6FbA5pIL 3 May A win for Health Star Rating in Federal Budget 5867 25 5 - 2016 with continued funding until 2020 @healthstarsau #Budget2016 #HealthElection16 1 April Next week is #publichealthweek. @_PHAA_ 5469 29 25 8 2016 are focusing on a #publichealth topic per day. Monday is Indigenous Health pic.twitter.com/fTwKJ9uoBV 3 May .@_PHAA_ Media Release: Prevention still 5384 41 12 41 2016 not a priority in Federal Budget #HealthElection16 #Budget2016 http://bit.ly/1X6itsT
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 26 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
World No Tobacco Day 15th National Immunisation Conference Public Health Week 4 – 8 April 2016
Federal Budget Night
Summary: LinkedIn is another avenue to engage potential members and key stakeholders. PHAA has a LinkedIn profile and people can join the group and be part of discussions. The posts include Conference updates, media releases and new research.
Followers: 102
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 27 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 28 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Media Releases:
Total: 69
Summary: There were a total of 69 media releases sent from 1 July 2015 – 30 June 2016. The latest statistics are searching for ‘Public Health Association of Australia’ and ‘Michael Moore’. Below is a portrayal of PHAA’s presence in traditional media over the last financial year.
PHAA Media Engagement (Sorted by reach) Sorted by reach shows when PHAA and/or Michael Moore is mentioned only once and how many people the article reached. MSN Australia reaches 334 million people and therefore has the highest reach.
Date Article Publication Articles Reach 19 August 2015 Why Pete Evans is wrong about Paleo baby MSN Australia 1 334M formula 11 September 2015 He’s at it again! Paleo Pete Evan’s strange MSN Australia - 334M new obsession 11 September 2015 Drugs, pornography and bicycle helmets MSN Australia 2 334M under Senate microscope as David Leyonhjelm's "nanny state" inquiry begins 28 September 2015 RU486: Medical abortion drug mifepristone MSN Australia 1 334M now available over the phone 18 December 2015 Tobacco company Philip Morris loses bid to MSN Australia 2 332M challenge plain packaging laws 2 July 2015 The church of global warming Greenie Watch - 182M 8 November 2015 Ley defends insurance proposal for Yahoo!7 18 99M smokers 6 October 2015 Farmers' $1bn Pacific trade deal boost Yahoo!7 6 99M 18 December 2015 Tobacco giant case against govt rejected Yahoo!7 12 97M 6 December 2015 Govt launches $300m ice prevention plan Yahoo!7 45 97M 2 September 2015 Experts put 'strong public health case for The Guardian 31M marriage equality' to all MPs 18 December 2015 Australia wins international legal battle The Guardian 31M with Philip Morris over plain packaging 3 February 2016 TPP signing: Andrew Robb rejects calls for The Guardian 31M cost-benefit analysis of trade deal 30 August 2015 Bite Back: Campaign to get fluoride in News.com.au 4 7M Australian towns, with push to give power to state governments to decide instead of councils 17 July 2015 Calls for naturopaths to be regulated News.com.au 13 7M 10 July 2015 Alcohol abuse inquiry into Cenduna’s News.com.au 11 7M Aboriginal communities told readings regularly exceed machine limits 7 December 2015 RUSH HOUR: The stories you need to know News.com.au 22 7M today 1 February 2016 Time to get radical in fight against News.com.au 2 7M childhood obesity 13 January 2016 Thesis on vaccine ‘conspiracy’ News.com.au 4 7M 19 January 2016 Anti-vax PhD not in uni’s review News.com.au 2 7M
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 29 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
PHAA Media Engagement (Sorted by relevance) Sorted by relevance shows how relevant the article is to PHAA. This includes if PHAA is in the title, how many times PHAA and/or Michael Moore is mentioned and how far up the article these mentions occur.
Date Article Publication Articles Reach 28 June 2016 PHAA 44th Annual Conference & 20th Grog Watch 16K Chronic Diseases Network Conference 27 June 2016 Public Health Association supports Food Processing - - soft drink tax 20 June 2016 Labor lauded for preventive health Australian Journal - - plan of Pharmacy 5 May 2016 Politicians should embrace a five-step The Daily 12 1M plan to combat family violence Telegraph 28 April 2016 Leak raises access to medicines Australian Journal - - concerns of Pharmacy 26 April 2016 Better vaccination strategy needed Australian Journal - - of Pharmacy 1 April 2016 Public Health Week sets focus on Australian - - crucial topics and encourages Indigenous discussion HealthInfoNet 30 March 2016 Groups call on government to deliver Third Sector - - secure health and education funding at COAG 19 June 2016 Labor runs hard on health and “the Croakey - - Medicare election” – wrapping the policies and reaction 12 April 2016 Public health leader calls for Croakey - - accountability in justice policies and politics 5 April 2016 Marking public health week with new Croakey - - warnings on climate change: the US, that is, not Australia 24 June 2016 Farmers go sour on Greens’ sugar tax The Australian 6 - plot Dairy Farmer 18 December 2015 Tobacco company Philip Morris loses MSN Australia 332M bid to challenge plain packaging laws 22 June 2016 20% sugar price rise plan welcomed Australian Journal - - of Pharmacy 9 March 2016 Increasing alcohol excise by 10% ... Sunshine Coast - 539K will have an impact on chronic Daily ePaper disease. 9 March 2016 Nuclear mistakes NT News - 539K 26 February 2016 Plain packaging works: PHAA Australian Journal - - of Pharmacy 15 February 2016 Address homelessness to Close the Australian Journal - - Gap: PHAA of Pharmacy 8 June 2016 Calls for more investment to develop a ABC (PM) - 4M safe vaccine that conquers all strains of flu 9 June 2016 Whooping cough vaccination: One Sydney Morning 5 3M quarter of mums failing to pass on Herald immunisation
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 30 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
US anti-abortion campaigner Troy Newman granted temporary reprieve Trans-Pacific Partnership Children at risk as alcohol and deal confirms fears about gambling get free kick in new Public Health Association of Australia policy future: critics television code chief executive Michael Moore praised Mr Dutton for his "strong "Our concern is that Michael Moore, chief executive of stance against purveyors of violence there are still probably the Public Health Association said to women". some loopholes in it," the the government should be breaking chief executive of the the nexus between a healthy activity "In an Australia that respects women Public Health Association such as sport and products that ther e is no place for Troy Newman," of Australia, Michael cause significant harm. There's no he said. Moore, said. justification for this exemption at
all."
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 31 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Weekly eBulletin:
The first eBulletin was sent out on 21 April 2016 to actively engage all PHAA members and stakeholders on a regular basis. The eBulletin communicates to members what’s happening at the PHAA national office.
The eBulletin also lists new research and reports, Conference updates, news submissions and position statements and media releases. The advertising bulletin is incorporated into this on the right hand side column advertising jobs, scholarships, workshops and Conferences. The open rate is about 45 - 50%. We hope to build this to be 60% by analysing popular clicks and asking members to send through their research and/or information.
The eBulletin is a successful way to engage members on a regular basis and provide a broad range of information from PHAA and in the public health sector. We look forward to growing the eBulletin over the coming years. • 30 June 2016 • 19 May 2016 • 23 June 2016 • 12 May 2016 • 16 June 2016 • 5 May 2016 • 9 June 2016 • 28 April 2016 • 2 June 2016 • 21 April 2016 • 26 May 2016
Intouch
The Intouch is available digital and PDF and it sent to all PHAA members each month with the help of the two editors Pippa Burns and Jacky Horne. Reminders are sent to all PHAA members to send through articles to be included. Each edition is approximately 13 – 15 pages long and advertises PHAA’s Conferences and adjusts media releases to fit the style.
2016 Editions 2015 Editions June Digital Edition December Digital Edition May Digital Edition November Digital Edition April Digital Edition October Digital Edition March Digital Edition September Digital Edition January/February Digital Edition August Digital Edition July Digital Edition
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 32 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Conferences
PHAA aims to run a minimum of three conferences per annum as part its commitment to sector capacity building. PHAA in January 2016 also employed an Events & Capacity Building Officer to further develop PHAA conferences and events capacity.
The following conferences have been held during the 2015/16 financial year and have been held in relation to population health, primary health care, complex needs and immunisation.
Where available, the conference abstract books, audio and presentation slides of the invited speakers may be viewed on the PHAA website under Past Conferences.
Population Health Congress 2015
Dates: Sunday 6 to Wednesday 9 September 2015 Location: Hobart, Tasmania Venue: Hotel Grand Chancellor Theme: One Vision, Many Voices Delegates: 972 Total abstract submissions received: 879
The 3rd Population Health Congress was the key healthcare event of 2015 for anyone involved in health promotion, epidemiology, public and environment health, public health medicine and primary health care.
PHAA partnered with the Australian Health Promotion Association, Royal Australasian College of Physicians and the Australasian Epidemiological Association to host the 2015 Congress and engaged MCI Australia to manage the event as the Professional Conference Organisers.
The Congress was held over three days and aimed to provide diverse strategies and actionable insights that promote change and optimise performance across the population healthcare sectors. The program included keynote speakers, abstract presentations in oral and poster format.
Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities were available for the Congress and engaged organisations such as: • Australian Government Department of Health; • Tasmanian Government, Department of Health and Human Services; • University of South Australia; and • Deakin University. Overall the 3rd Population Health Congress was a great success with delegates providing positive feedback on their experiences at the Congress:
• Overall, I enjoyed the conference, inspired by many presentations from a variety of voices in population health topics, enjoyed dance in Gala dinner and received many new friendships.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 33 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Huge congratulations to the organisers, it really was very well done. The app was really useful and well designed, much better so than those I've used at other conferences. The venue was perfect and the atmosphere friendly. I would recommend this conference to anyone in my field. • One of the key strengths of this congress was the range of topics from research to health promotion to the politics of implementing health policies and flow of information. It is anticipated that the Population Health Congress will be held again in 2019.
Photos from the Congress
National Primary Health Care Conference 2015
Dates: Monday 2 to Wednesday 4 November 2015 Location: Canberra, ACT Venue: National Convention Centre Theme: Innovation, Challenges and Opportunities Delegates: 285 Total abstract submissions received: 107
The National Primary Health Care Conference was first held by PHAA in November 2015 and was supported by the Australian Hospital and Health Care Association.
Continuing in the theme of previous events hosted by the Australian Medicare Local Alliance, this conference was based around the development of primary health care and the evidence-based trends in the changing landscape of primary health care in the Australian setting.
The Conference was held over three days and included a pre-conference workshop day and two days of conference program. The pre-conference workshops included focus areas of:
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 34 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Data Tools; • Advocacy and Engagement; and • Primary Health Networks.
Overall the conference rated well amongst attendees, feedback received included:
• The variety of topics in particular the pre-conference workshops, advocacy and engagement sessions were very useful; • Good networking, relevant sessions, pragmatic rather than academic; • Good level of attendance made for good networking opportunities, great range of presentations and sessions. The National Primary Health Care Conference will be held again in November 2016 in Melbourne with the theme ‘Primary health care: building a strong preventative foundation for a healthy Australia’.
Photos from the Conference
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 35 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Second National Complex Needs Conference 2015
Dates: Tuesday 17 to Wednesday 18 November 2015 Location: Canberra, ACT Venue: Canberra Rex Hotel Theme: N/A Delegates: 216 Total abstract submissions received: 73
The Second Complex Needs Conference was held in conjunction with the National Complex Needs Alliance (NCNA). The Conference aimed to showcase successful programs/approaches in addressing complex needs - with the broader purpose of identifying what works and how. The first conference in 2013 was a huge success - leading to the establishment of the NCNA.
Sponsorship and exhibition was available for the Congress and engaged organisations such as:
• cohealth; • arbias; and • ACT Health. The Conference program included keynote speakers, abstract presentations in oral and poster format. Highlights from the Keynote presentations included: • Professor Tim Calma AO; National Coordinator, Tackling Indigenous Smoking; Co-Chair of Reconciliation Australia • Ms Bernadette Mitcherson, Executive Director, ACT Corrective Services; • Ms Yvette Berry MLA, ACT Minister for Housing, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Community Services, Multicultural Affairs, Women and Minister assisting the Chief Minister on Social Inclusion and Equality
Photos from the Conference
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 36 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
15th National Immunisation Conference 2016
Dates: Tuesday 7 June to Thursday 9 June 2016 Location: Brisbane, QLD
Venue: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Theme: the jigsaw – fitting the pieces two decades on
Delegates: 525 Total abstract submissions received: 198
The 15th National Immunisation Conference was a large success with over 520 delegates attending over the three conference days. In addition, the Conference major sponsors continued on from previous years and the Conference retained a strong engagement with the sector, this included a sell-out exhibition component as well.
This was the first event managed by the PHAA Events & Capacity Officer who commenced in January 2016. The Conference was organised closely in collaboration with the Conference Advisory Committee whose primary objective was to provide advice on speakers, support, information and guidance in developing the program.
Communications and media for the 15th National Immunisation Conference 2016 were managed by the PHAA Communications & Engagement Officer and were very successful with Twitter being used for the first time in conjunction with the Conference. The hashtag was #NIC2016 which was present throughout all electronic and print material to encourage delegates to engage via social media on immunisation topics.
Twitter: #NIC2016
Followers: 46
Tweets: 52
Most popular tweet: How to engage with vaccine hesitant parents - Dr Katie Attwell #NIC2016 @kellyhd @612brisbane pic.twitter.com/JbVFCydCdk
IMPRESSIONS: 2077 RETWEETS: 10 LIKES: 8
Analytics: • 3,352,422 Impressions • 1505 Tweets • 306 participants • 16 tweets per hour • 5 tweets per participant
PHAA CEO Michael Moore and various Conference keynote speakers engaged with the media with live radio interviews, newspaper interviews and blog interviews.
In addition to the 15th National Immunisation Conference, PHAA managed the GSK Immunisation Grants in association with the Immunisation Conference. This is the first year that PHAA has run the GSK
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 37 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Immunisation Grants concurrently to the Conference. The awards were presented during the 15th National Immunisation Conference Dinner. The announcement of the winners were done by the PHAA CEO Michael Moore and trophies and certificates were handed to the winners by Birgit Beisner of GSK.
Overall the Conference was a large success and receive a rating of 4.41 out of 5 for attendance. Some of the feedback included: • The best presentations were on the last day and these were excellent. • Very informative and relative to my line of work as an Immunisation and public health nurse • Very well organised, with informative and interesting sessions. • Well organised and structured • Best one yet! • Best scientific content to date • An extremely well organised conference. • Great speakers and interesting topics presented. Below is an insight in to the breakdown of attendance at the Conference:
Registration Types
Member Non Student Member Non Student Sponsor Exhibitor Keynote Full Member Full Day Member Day Speaker Full Day
116 250 19 8 57 8 38 4 17
Attendees Location
ACT NSW QLD NT WA SA VIC TAS International Unknown
16 123 99 5 33 21 140 3 11 72
The successful PHAA National Immunisation Conference will return in 2018.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 38 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Photos from the Conference
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 39 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health (ANZJPH)
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health (ANZJPH) continues to go from strength to strength. This year the Public Health Association of Australia, with recommendation from the Editors, agreed that from February 2017, the Journal will be completely online and open access. The last printed journal will be the December 2016 issue. Public Health Association members will receive a discount to publish in the Journal and an incentive to earning a free publication by reviewing at least four manuscripts for the Journal in one year.
Professor John Lowe will continue his tenure as editor-in-chief and is supported by a group of six editors ranging in expertise in public health. For 2015/16 the six editors included Dr Roxanne Bainbridge, Dr Bridget Kool, Dr Priscilla Robinson, Dr Melissa Stoneham and associate Professor’s Luke Wolfenden and Samantha Thomas. Dr Roxanne Bainbridge resigned in April 2016 and we welcomed Dr Hassan Vally to the team of editors. The Journal continues to be supported by a noteworthy group of academics serving on the editorial board. Collectively the editorial team and the editorial board make every effort to improve a strong Journal and be competitive on the worldwide market.
The rejection rate of new papers continues to be high at 67%. The quality of manuscripts submitted to the Journal continues to improve. We published 112 articles/brief reports in 2015/2016 compared with 86 articles/brief reports last year. ANZJPH continues as a substantial peer review Journal reaching a five-year citation index of 1.9. This year we published a special issue on Indigenous health. This was our first online open access issue. We need to continue to make our research available worldwide.
The table on the next page provides an overview of ANZJPH.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 40 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
1 July 2013 – 30 June 2014 1 July 2014 – 30 June 2015 1 July 2015 – 30 June 2016
Papers Received 436 516 454
Status @ 30 June
Rejected, Lapsed or 247 (52%) 351 (68%) 306 (67%) Withdrawn
Live (In Review or 85 55 64 Revision)
Accepted 104 110 84
Source
Australia 306 364 347
New Zealand 45 57 57
Other Overseas 85 95 50
Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh (2), Argentina, Brazil (2), Canada, China Belgium, Canada (2), China (11), Brazil (2), Canada, China (12), France, (25), Egypt (5), Ethiopia, France (2), Cyprus, Egypt (3), Fiji, India (3), Iran French Polynesia, Germany, India (7), Ghana, Greece (2), India (4), (7), Korea, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Iran (3), Italy (2), Korea (9), Indonesia, Iran (7), Iraq, Korea (7), Serbia (2), South Africa (2), Spain, Malaysia, Nigeria (2), Norway, Malaysia (4), New Caledonia, Nigeria Turkey (5), Unites States (8) Pakistan (3), Poland (2), Portugal, (3), Oman, Pakistan (7), Poland (2), Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, South South Africa, Taiwan (2), Timor-Leste, Africa (2), Spain (3), Sweden, Taiwan Turkey (7), United Arab Emirates, (3), Thailand (2), Turkey (9), United United Kingdom (2), United States (3) Kingdom (5), United States of America (3)
Content Published
Editorials 9 9 5
Commentary 5 14 9
Articles / Brief Reports 80 86 112
Letters to the Editor 36 24 13
Book Reviews 16 11 12
Total 146 144 151*
91 Articles were published online this year. 73 of the 91 were included in print issues and counted above.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 41 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Stakeholder Engagement & Alliances
PHAA are pleased with the leadership role that we have been able to play and the growing enthusiasm of the networks to build alliances, linkages and partnerships. In addition to the work at the national level the Branches and Special Interest Groups of PHAA have been building similar alliances and partnerships at the state, territory, local and professional levels.
Social Determinants of Health Alliance
PHAA has continued the operation of the SDOHA Secretariat over the past financial year. With over 60 organisational members from the areas of health, social services and public policy the Alliance continues to deliver a series of well attended events throughout the year for its members and the public at large.
In addition to regular Member meetings and Management Committee meetings the following events have been organised by the Secretariat for the Alliance:
Anti-Poverty Week Oration – October 2015 The second annual Anti-Poverty Week oration was delivered by Dr John Falzon (CEO – St Vincent de Paul Society National Council of Australia) in Canberra on 14 October. Dr Falzon highlighted the relationship between poverty and ill-health and the launched the St Vincent de Paul report “Sick with Worry …..” – Stories from the frontline of inequality, 2015.
The event was well attended with over 70 attendees.
Public Forum – “Time to Act” – March 2016 Three years on from the initial inquiry this Public Forum brought together two senators who were involved in the initial Senate Committee Inquiry on Community Affairs Recommendations into Australia’s domestic response to the World Health Organisations (WHO) Commission on Social Determinants of Health report “Closing the gap within a generation” were handed down.
Senators Moore & Siewert and Stephen Jones MP gave an insight into their recommendations and opinions on how to proceed further with the Inquiry recommendations.
Further information about SDOHA is available on the website at www.socialdeterminants.org.au.
National Alliance for Action on Alcohol
NAAA is a coalition of more than 75 organisations that has formed to ensure a strong and collective voice on alcohol policy issues. PHAA was instrumental in establishing NAAA in 2009, and since its inception NAAA has focused on several priority areas for policy advocacy, including reform of alcohol taxation; restricting alcohol access and availability; and strengthening the regulation of alcohol marketing and promotions. During 2015/16, NAAA’s membership has continued to grow and encompass a diverse range of interests, including public health, law enforcement, local government, Indigenous health, child and adolescent
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 42 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 health, and family and community services Further information of the work of NAAA is available on the website at: www.actiononalcohol.org.au
Council of Academic Public Health Institutions Australia (CAPHIA)
CAPHIA is the peak national organisation that represents Heads of Schools and Discipline leaders of public health at universities and institutes that offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs and research and community service activity in public health throughout Australia.
CAPHIA was established in mid-2011 and now has 28 member institutions which include over 95% of the universities with significant public health higher education and research programs in Australia, and makes CAPHIA well-placed to represent the interests of the sector. The CAPHIA Executive Committee meets monthly by teleconference and the CAPHIA Project Manager is located with and supported by the PHAA National Office.
CAPHIA’s aim is to maintain high quality academic standards in the education and development of public health practitioners and researchers, to lead and represent public health education in the tertiary sector and to be a respected voice and advocate for the development of public health professionals and researchers within Australia. CAPHIA's annual activities include a national teaching and learning forum, and other activities as appropriate to enhance teaching and research endeavours amongst academic public health institutions, such as a review of MPH core competencies.
Further information on the work of CAPHIA is available on its website at www.caphia.com.au.
Australian Healthcare & Hospitals Association
Primary Health Fund Investment Management Advisory Group
Statement of Purpose
The Primary Health Fund Investment Management Advisory Group was founded by the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association and the Public Health Association of Australia, acknowledging the organisations’ shared commitment to primary health and better health outcomes for Australians.
The Primary Health Fund Investment Management Advisory Group is tasked with managing the $500,000 balance of funds from the Australian Medicare Local Alliance (AMLA) distribution after allocations of 25% to each Association. It meets every six months and reports to each organisation’s respective Board.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 43 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Branch Reports
Australian Capital Territory Branch
Russell McGowan – President Secretary: David McDonald Treasurer: Cathy Banwell
Governance
The Branch AGM was held in September 2015 in conjunction with a Canberra talk by Trevor Hancock, one of the founders of the global Healthy Cities and Communities movement, co-sponsored by the Fenner Foundation and the EHSIG. Russell McGowan was elected to a final term as branch president, with David McDonald and Cathy Banwell continuing as secretary and treasurer respectively. The position of vice president remains vacant. .
Partnerships and Advocacy
Members of the Branch are continuing to support an ACT organisation called CaPAD which seeks to improve civil society and citizen engagement in decision making about public policy in the ACT. There are ongoing concerns about arrangements for funding political parties from a public health perspective, particularly to the extent that these relied on donations from organisations who generated from gambling activities including licensed clubs. Branch members continue to engage with the Capital Health Network (formerly ACT Medicare Local) on provision of primary healthcare services including a trial of pharmacists within general practice. The Branch endorsed a letter to the ACT Health Minister, who is also Minister for Environment and Climate Change, applauding the ACT’s continued commitment to renewable energy and encouraging the ACT Government to continue its efforts in reducing greenhouse emissions to combat climate change. Members have also participated in seminars on population health issues conducted by the University of Canberra Centre for Research and Action in Public Health, and in a research workshop conducted at ANU by Gary Sacks from Deakin University to rate the Australian and ACT Governments’ performance across numerous Food Policy domains. The Branch was part of a workshop at COTA ACT on aspects of public health promoted by the ACT Government as part of Canberra’s recognition as an Age- Friendly City.
Public and member events
As there will be an ACT Legislative Assembly Election in 2016, the Branch is looking to engage in forums at which public health issues will be raised. PHAA’s CEO Michael Moore is to chair a debate in September on health service management at which public health issues will be raised with party leaders, and branch members will be invited to a Health Care Consumers Association forum with party health spokespeople later in the month. The Branch Committee is keen to establish a mentoring program for new graduates but
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 44 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 has failed to progress this during the year other than opening its committee meetings to the broader membership
New South Wales Branch
Jude Page – President, Vice President: Dr Karen McPhail-Bell, Treasurer: Pat Mahta Committee members: Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli, Dr Mary Osborn, Dr Sinead Boylan, Dr Grace Spencer, Simon Willcox and Eamon Brown Interns: Kate Sewell and Nicole Turner
This year the NSW Branch focused on the future, with a new strategic plan centring on a sustainable future, health equity, supporting communities to have a voice and promoting engagement of students in the activities of the PHAA and public health more broadly.
Internships and mentoring Building on the success of our student internship program, the branch funded its first Aboriginal Intern. As part of this program, interns were offered scholarships to attend the PHAA national Congress in Hobart; in addition to support to develop Public Health skills through undertaking a project. Applications for internships were very competitive with a strong field of nominees. Thank you to Professor Bruce Armstrong who funded the Aboriginal Internships.
Awards The 2015 NSW Public Health Impact Award for significant achievement in public health was awarded to Associate Professor Julie Leask for her contribution to immunisation and Public Health.
Strengthening engagement in public health NSW PHAA Annual address: We were honoured by Professor Sharon Friel’s address - A game plan for health equity: reflecting on the past for a positive future.
Anti-Poverty week: Dr Mirai Chatterjee, of the Self-Employed Women’s Association (India) and former Commissioner on the Social Determinants of Health gave a keynote address ‘Empowering women for Health’ followed by a Q&A session with A/ Professor Elizabeth Harris (UNSW), Michael Moore (PHAA), Professor Anna Klinken Whelan (Sydney Local Health Network) and Mandy Richards (CEO, Global Sisters).
Following his keynote address at the PHAA Congress, Professor Trevor Hancock (University of Victoria, Canada and the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) healthy cities project), the PHAA hosted a Healthy Urban Development Symposium with Sydney Local Health District. - ‘The Anthropocene, Planetary Health and healthy cities’. Prof Hancock was joined by Dr Iain Butterworth, of Vic Health and University of Melbourne with evidence-based urban liveability indicators to predict the health and wellbeing of people and communities.
Advocacy
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 45 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
The Branch was involved in providing information to government and local populations on the likely health impacts of the WestConnex motorway development. Submissions included the potential harms of promoting increased vehicle use, including vehicle emissions, increased costs of toll roads and inequities such as tolling roads which are currently free to use.
The Branch worked in partnership with the Climate and Health Alliance to raise awareness of the health risks of climate change to decision makers and the community, including the report Coal and Health in the Hunter: Lessons from One Valley for the World. We signed an open letter to the NSW premier with Health leaders and contributed to a review of the NSW public Health Act, to broaden the definition beyond health protection to bring it in line with research evidence of predictable risks to population health.
The Branch continued to advocate for the successful, evidence based measures that have reduced alcohol- related assaults and hospitalisations in NSW through submissions and social media.
Thank you to the NSW Branch Executive Committee for their continued commitment to public health in NSW and beyond.
Northern Territory Branch
Michael Fonda – President
Thanks again NT PHAA members and supporters and staff in 2015/16, and particularly everyone who has phoned in to a meeting, contributed to a submission, been involved in an organisation we have worked with, or brought ideas and inspiration.
The NT Branch advocates in collaboration with the PHAA SIGs particularly Environment and Ecology, Injury Prevention, and Women's Health; and other health and environment groups.
We work largely through monthly phone meetings, accessible to members across the NT and via out-of- session email correspondence.
Foci this year: Termination of pregnancy law reform • Collaborating with Top End Women's Legal Service and NT Family Planning and Welfare Association to legalise Medical Termination of Pregnancy, and remove terminations from the Criminal Code. • Research, advocacy, community networking, targeted lobbying of Ministers and Shadow Ministers. • A private members bill came into parliament and was not debated Nuclear industry • Lobbying for the safety of visitors to Rum Jungle Lake from radiation exposure from legacy uranium mines through participation in Advisory Group. Remediation options being explored.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 46 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Collaborating with NT Health, Menzies School of Health Research, Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation and Red Lily Health Board in investigation of increased rates of cancer and foetal deaths affecting Aboriginal people near Ranger Uranium mine. Fracking • Provided health spokespeople at anti-fracking meetings in Maningrida and Alice Springs, • Collaboration with locals affected by the proposed gas pipeline to connect the NT to QLD • commented on the draft EIS for the pipeline. Road safety • On-going media and political work promoting the need for speed limits, in particular opposing their removal in a trial on the Stuart Highway. Collaborating with general and emergency physicians and surgeons, we have succeeding in gaining commitment from NT ALP to re-introduce speed limits. Alcohol • Continued to pressure the NT Government to adopt the harm reduction recommendations from the NT's Select Committee on Action to Prevention Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. • Participating in a new NT interagency group dealing with FASD issues. • Lobbying for an alcohol floor price • Jointly participated in July 2016 media release with PAAC, the Northern Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency and the Human Rights Law Centre regarding unreasonable punitive measures against people with alcohol dependency.
Nutrition • Advocating on behalf of employees who have been silenced around low nutrition, energy dense foods sold at new bakeries in remote NT Aboriginal Communities funded by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet under the title “Remote Food Solutions”. • Undertaken lobbying work to ensure that current and future successful tenders attain and uphold better standards. Gaming • Responded to government’s decision to increase gaming machines. • Gained support from Territory Labor for better control of gaming machine numbers. PHAA Conference • Awarded student scholarship to the 2015 conference • Hosting PHAA’s national conference in Alice Springs this year • Supporting 2016 conference organisation. NT Election • Preparing Election Scorecards to rate political parties and independent candidates on their public health policies prior to the August 2016 election.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 47 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Queensland Branch
Paul Gardiner – President Committee – Frances Birrell, Letitia del Fabbro, Georgina Dove, Mohammad Kadir, Kyoko Miura, Keren Papier, Rimante Ronto, Amy Zeegers At the recent Annual General Meeting we welcomed new members to the Committee and farewelled Tamzyn Davey, Shannon Dias, Sara Gollschewski, Vidya Gopinath, and Tania Patrao, and we want to thank them for their contribution and dedication to the Branch.
Advocacy We continued to focus on advocacy issues in the past year. We worked in conjunction with the National Office, PHAA Special Interest Groups and other organisations to write several submissions to Queensland Government inquiries this year. In response to our submission to the Tackling Alcohol-fuelled Violence Legislation Amendment Bill 2015, Paul Gardiner and Danielle Dalla (National Office) appeared before the Health, Communities, Disability Services and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Committee. The Branch was part of the Queensland Coalition for Action on Alcohol and QCAA was a driving force in ensuring that the proposed legislation was passed. Paul Gardiner and Danette Langbecker appeared before the Committee in response to our submission on the establishment of a Queensland Health Promotion Commission. We proposed a health in all policy due to the limited budget allocated to the establishment of the Commission. Even though the Committee recommended the establishment of a Commission, they couldn’t agree on a structure and we await progress on this. Angela Taft (Women’s Health SIG) and Alex Culloden (National Office) appeared before the Committee in response to our submission on the Abortion Law Reform (Woman's Right to Choose) Amendment Bill 2016. We wrote letters to all MPs on the issue and await the findings of the Committee. We also made submissions to inquiries on the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products (Extension of Smoking Bans) Amendment Bill 2015 and the Draft Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016. We worked with the Australian Health Promotion Association on a letter to the Premier on the issue of fluoridation.
Engagement In 2016 we trialled an intern position. Lisa Daly was the successful applicant and worked on policy development and organisation of events.
We continued our support of undergraduate students through the provision of academic prizes. These awards recognise outstanding academic achievement in public health courses and we congratulate: Kaley Butten (Queensland University of Technology), Chinedu Collins Anukam and Shelley Kerr (Australian Catholic University), Keely Blest and Dana Walker (Griffith University), Max Milosevic (James Cook University). Danette Langbecker represented the Branch at events for Women in Science program and Paul Gardiner chaired a panel session at the International Federation on Ageing Conference.
Professional Development
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 48 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
The Branch held a number of events in 2015-16 and were particularly pleased that we were able to hold some of these outside of Brisbane. We hosted a workshop on Essentials of Health Promotion Program Evaluation in July 2015. Professor John Lowe (editor ANZJPH) ran workshops on Writing for Publication in Brisbane and Townsville (August 2016), and Rockhampton (November 2016 and supported by Central Queensland University).
The Queensland Branch continues to engage with members and others via Twitter (@PHAAQldbranch), our website (www.phaaqld.org.au) and email. The number of Twitter followers has almost doubled in the past year. The Branch was delighted that our applications for Dr Peter Anderson as PHAA Mentor of the Year and for a President’s Award were successful and recognise his contributions to public health in Queensland.
South Australian Branch
Kate Kameniar – President, Dr. Rebecca Tooher - Vice-President, Dr. Hanna Tervonen – Secretary
PHAA SA Branch has continued to be very active in South Australia. In 2015-16 we have continued to support professional development of new and early career public health practitioners and researchers through a range of activities. We have maintained positive working relationships with key stakeholders including the four universities, AHPA, AFPHM, AEA and SACOSS.
We would like acknowledge the dedicated work of our enthusiastic committee. Several members have stepped down and we would particularly like to thank our former President Narelle Berry who has relocated to the United Kingdom to take a position at the University of East Anglia, Patricia Carter who has agreed to continue chairing the steering committee for the 2016 State Population Health Conference in an ex officio capacity.and Carly Moores who has been managing the application process for PHAA SA’s many awards and scholarships.
Public Events 2014-2015 • August – our popular Careers in Public Health Workshop was attended by over 50 students and early career professionals. Dr. Robert Hall gave the introductory talk entitled ‘Reflections on a career in public health’. This was followed by a World Café session concentrating on careers in public health, a SCORPIO session aimed at developing public health career portfolios, and a facilitated networking activity. Participants continue to provide very positive feedback on the event. • October – State Population Health Conference –executive members Patrisha Carter and Dr Rebecca Tooher led the organizing committee as conference co-chairs. Dr Felicity-Ann Lewis opened the conference with a key note presentation titled “Working with the politics… lessons from the coalface”. Professor Tony Butler chaired a plenary panel on public health issues of prison health. A further 20 speakers presented their work in concurrent sessions exploring a wide range of topics from chronic disease management to health promotion. Approximately 120 people attended.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 49 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• May - November – two events were included in the 2015 Mentoring program for early career practitioners and researchers in public health. An introductory event brought together 16 mentees with a mentor in their chosen area of public health and provided support for them to develop their mentoring objectives. The final networking event brought the program to a close in November, with both mentees and mentors sharing positive feedback on their experience in the program.
Public Recognition Prizes The PHAA recognizes public health and primary health care leaders and their contribution to these fields of endeavor, with 3 Awards: • The Kerry Kirke Student Award - Open to all students of public health in the state, and awarded to recognise the public health benefit of the student’s work, along with its quality, originality, and degree of difficulty. The 2015 recipient was Dr Jianjun Xian, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide. • The SA Community Health Association Primary Health Care Practitioner Award for 2015 was jointly awarded to Theresa Francis for her work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and to Lyndall Thomas for her work on chronic disease prevention. This award is jointly awarded with the SA Branch of the Australian Health Promotion Association. • The Basil Hetzel Leadership in Public Health Award for 2015 was received by Professor Jeffrey Fuller from Flinders University recognising his significant contribution to public health, across a variety of areas including primary health care service planning.
Scholarships The PHAA SA Branch supports students in several ways, including through provision of several scholarships to attend national PHAA conferences. The 2015 winner of the Konrad Jamrozik scholarship was Danielle Post, Centre for Population Health Research, University of South Australia.
The Public Health Mentoring Program This successful program, in its 15th year, supports early career public health researchers and practitioners in public health. The 2015 program was managed by Kate Kameniar and Ashley Web. Sixteen mentees were paired with a mentor from their chosen area of public health and positive feedback was received from both mentees and mentors.
Advocacy PHAA SA Branch has continued to engage in a range of advocacy activities including participating in joint state advocacy discussions with SACOSS and Southgate Institute (Flinders University), involvement in the inaugural South Australian Public Health Week in conjunction with SA Health and through submissions to the state government to empower them to consider the public health impacts of their policies, funding and programs.
SA Branch Members
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 50 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
We currently have 141 members as at June 2016.
Planning for 2014-2015 PHAA SA Branch holds an annual planning day in November each year and we look forward to 2016-17, a state election year in South Australia, with continued passion and focus to continue our public health advocacy efforts in South Australia. We are in the throws of establishing an advisory committee with key public health experts to guide our advocacy efforts. We intend to take a proactive approach to the upcoming State election through a student internship to support development of key statements and/or tools assessing the parties commitment to and the impact of their policies on public health.
A number of our regular activities are already scheduled, including the 2016 State Population Health Conference, led by Trish Carter (Chair, Conference Organising Committee) and Dr Natasha Howard (Chair, Scientific Committee); the Careers Night led by Aimee Brownbill; and the 16th Mentoring Program is already underway, led by Ashley Webb and Kate Kameniar.
Tasmanian Branch
Gillian Mangan – President, Secretary: Kylie Smith, Treasurer: Silvana Bettiol Committee: Laura Laslett, Michael Bentley and Holley Jones
With limited capacity this year, the branch has had a very quiet year in terms of branch focussed advocacy, although many of our members are active contributors to the national Special Interest Groups.
We were able to contribute to a second co-submission to the re-established Joint Parliamentary Select Committee into Preventative Health Care in Tasmania. The former Committee was disbanded prior to it reporting when the government was prorogued prior to the State Election. Through active advocacy, a new Committee was established and as a (PHAA) member of the Health in All Policies Collaboration in Tasmania, a new submission was prepared for the new Joint Parliamentary Select Committee into Preventative Health Care in Tasmania.
The submission recommended the following: 1. That a whole-of-government State Strategic Plan for Tasmania be developed. 2. That a Health in All Policies approach be adopted in Tasmania. This approach would include the enacting of an Intersectoral Action Act (name to be determined), the establishment of an Intersectoral Action Board (name to be determined), and the establishment of a Population and Social Health Information and Research Centre and a Health in All Policies Unit. 3. That in transitioning to a single Tasmanian Health Service, state-wide population level health planning and resource allocation for preventative health services – as with acute clinical services – becomes an integral and valued component of plans for the future direction of the provision of health services in Tasmania.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 51 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
One of our members also appeared as a witness before the Committee to speak to the submission. The Committee has recently released their report (available here: http://www.parliament.tas.gov.au/ctee/Joint/Reports/JSCPH%20FINAL%20REPORT%20160311.pdf ) which largely supported our recommendations, including that the Government adopt a Health in All Policies approach in Tasmania. The Health Minister has since launched the Healthy Tasmania Five Year Strategic Plan (http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/224567/Healthy_Tasmania_Strategic_Plan_We b_v8_LR.pdf) which also highlighted the need for such an approach, with some first (tentative) steps for implementation outlined.
The branch’s executive met recently to determine how to reinvigorate the branch. It was determined that a survey of Tasmanian members be undertaken to establish members views on their expectations of the branch’s activities. The results will be collated and discussed at the AGM planned for late September/early October, at which time elections will also take place for the branch.
Victorian Branch
Brian Vandenberg – President, Secretary and Treasurer: Bronwyn Carter Committee Members: Bruce Bolam, Hannah George, Sophie Hennessy, Jane Howard, Peter Howard, Rebecca Lee, Trish Richie, Annie Synnott. Co-opted Committee Members: Jade Northcott, Jayde Cesarec
Policy and Advocacy In 2015/16 the Victorian Branch has continued with a strategic plan (which began in 2014/15) to take a proactive approach to policy and advocacy activities. Based on members’ preferences, and other factors such as the current policy priorities of government and the capacity of the voluntary committee, we identified the issue of preventative health funding as our primary advocacy area, with secondary advocacy areas around alcohol, mental health and Indigenous health.
The majority of our policy and advocacy work in 2015-16 has centered on making written submissions to the Victorian Government, including: • Victorian Citizens’ Jury on Obesity; • Inquiry into End of Life Choices; • Re-opened Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry; • Victorian Health and Medical Research Strategy; • Impact on Victorian Government Service Delivery of Changes to National Partnership Agreements; • Department of Health and Human Services Draft Youth Policy; • Gaming Machine Arrangements Review, joint submission with Australian Health Promotion Association (Victorian Branch); and,
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 52 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Inquiry into Road Safety Road Rules 2009 (Overtaking Bicycles) Bill 2015.
The Victorian branch has also continued its support for tobacco and alcohol policy advocacy. In April 2016, the Victorian Branch collaborated with QUIT and other organizations to sign a consensus statement to Victorian Government calling for a smoking ban in outdoor drinking and dining areas. Additionally the Victorian branch continued its membership of the Alcohol Policy Coalition, including co-signing letters and statements to both Victorian and Federal Government ministers on a range of alcohol policy issues.
Seminars A highlight of our year so far has been the annual careers seminar, jointly-hosted with the Victorian divisions of the Australasian Epidemiological Association, Australasian Faculty of Public Health Medicine, the Australian Health Promotion Association, and the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity. The event was well attended (100+ delegates) and has generated considerable interest in the PHAA, including offers from volunteers to assist with the branch’s work.
Networking and mentoring In a departure from previous years, in 2016 we are trialing a networking event in place of a formal seminar. This dedicated networking event will be semi-structured and is in response to consultation with our membership, and also recognizing that often there is little time to network and socialize when attending PHAA seminars or other more formal PHAA events.
We also continue to build links to universities, to raise awareness of the PHAA among students as a way of strengthening membership. The branch has recently engaged a number of student volunteers to consider novel ways to work in this space.
Communications This year we have stepped-up our efforts to communicate with the Victorian membership. A key strategy for this is a twice yearly email to Victorian based PHAA members to ensure that they are kept informed about Branch activities and how they can get involved and provide support for our work. The Victorian branch has also continued to contribute to the PHAA Intouch magazine.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 53 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Western Australian Branch
Jillian Abraham – President, Co Vice Presidents: Kaashifah Bruce, Stephanie Godrich, Secretary: Corie Gray, Treasurer: Tegan Reilly
Committee members: Emma Douglas, Danica Keric, Jessamie Godsell (departed 2015), Liz Bakowski (departed 2015), Venessa Wells (departed 2015), Maria Szybiak (departed 2015), Karla Lister (joined 2016), Jodie Hurd (joined 2016), Ainslie Sartori (joined 2016), Hannah Pierce (joined 2016).
Below is a summary of WA Branch activities for 2015-16: Strategic objective 1 – advocate for public health approaches to protect and promote the health of Western Australians • Provided a submission to the Liveable Neighbourhoods Review 2015. Liveable Neighbourhoods is a WA Planning Commission operational policy that sets out requirements and provides guidance relating to the structure planning and subdivision of greenfield and large brownfield sites. • Provided a submission to the Review of the Firearms Act 1973 Discussion Paper developed by the WA Law Reform Commission (the PHAA WA Branch previously had input into the discussion paper). • In partnership with the Australian Health Promotion Association (AHPA) WA Branch and the LiveLighter® campaign, sent letters to the Fremantle Football Club, West Coast Eagles and the West Australian Football Commission raising concerns about their tri-level sponsorship arrangement with McDonalds. In particular, concerns were raised about the Mac for a Match offer which entitles ticket holders aged 14 and over to a free McDonalds Big Mac following a home game win by either WA club. • Committee members participated in a number of round table discussions around topical advocacy issues (soft drink tax, corporate social responsibility, alcohol policy). • Three committee members commenced participation in the Public Health Advocacy Institute of Western Australia e-mentoring program and are receiving mentoring from an experienced public health advocate and completing activities to refine their advocacy skills which will be used in PHAA WA Branch advocacy activities. • Undertook a partnership mapping activity to build knowledge of potential advocacy partners. • The Branch commenced the development of a public health election manifesto in preparation for the State Election next year.
Strategic Objective 2 – building the capacity of the public health workforce to address public health issues in Western Australia through knowledge, skills and information exchange • Coordinated a tour of Parliament House with PHAA members– 17 attended. • Partnered with the AHPA WA Branch to deliver a successful student careers night with our biggest turn out to date with over 70 students attending (96 registered to attend).
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 54 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Supported the 2015 Healthway Visiting Fellow, Professor Frank Chaloupka, and in partnership with Cancer Council WA and the AHPA WA Branch delivered the seminar, Economic drivers of preventable chronic disease risk factors. • Michael Moore, PHAA CEO presented at the PHAA WA Branch AGM on getting the public health voice heard’– 66 registered to attend. • In partnership with Curtin University’s Food Law, Policy and Communication to Improve Public Health Project, Healthway and the AHPA WA Branch, delivered a food policy seminar with international experts - Current and future priorities for food policy: International insights–107 registered to attend, including in-person and via webinar. • Undertook a competitive process to support a PHAA WA member to attend the joint PHAA and CDN joint conference in Alice Springs this year.
Strategic objective 3–increase membership and enhance engagement with current PHAA WA members Membership promotion and engagement • Regularly promoted membership in communications and the Intouch in WA newsletter. • Undertook a members survey in February 2016 to better understand our members’ interests and what they want from their PHAA membership (response rate n=45). Based on survey findings, the planning of a Public Health Leadership event series commenced.
Awards Developed and implemented an awards nomination strategy for 2015. Winners for the 2015 President’s, Community, Aboriginal Health and Post Graduate PHAA WA Branch Awards were announced at the AGM in November 2015: • President’s Award: Samantha Menezes who successfully campaigned for secondary supply laws to be introduced in WA to prevent the supply of alcohol to minors without parental permission. • Community Award: Kelly Crossley, Principal Advisor, Environmental Health Branch, Department of Health who led the progression of the Public Health Bill through Parliament. • Aboriginal Health Award: Ngurra Kujungka – a not for profit, community driven, Indigenous health, sport and recreation organisation for having a positive impact on health outcomes in the Western Desert – East Pilbara region through providing increased opportunities for physical activity and skills development as well as employment options for local Aboriginal people. • Post Graduate Award: Dr Christina Davies, School of Population Health, the University of Western Australia for demonstrating an outstanding commitment to public health research, examining the nexus between art and health.
In Touch in WA Newsletter 2015 Editions: July, November, December 2016 Editions: March, June
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 55 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Twitter • Continued to manage the PHAA WA Branch Twitter account. Our number of followers has grown to 745. • Find out more about public health events, activities and news in WA by following us @_PHAA_WA
Strategic objective 4 - strengthen PHAA WA Branch Operations • Reviewed and updated the WA Branch Strategic Plan 2014-2018 • Reviewed and revised the role of the Strategic Advisory Committee – a senior group of public health professionals which provides support and guidance to the committee
I’d like to thank the retiring 2015 Committee members for their dedication and service to the PHAA and welcome the 2016 committee.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 56 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Special Interest Group Reports
As with previous years, the Special Interest Groups (SIG) have worked hard to maintain and build on PHAA policy, to participate in advocacy work and to assist in building capacity. Many of the SIGs have been active in the preparation of submissions and in engaging with the media. This year the SIGs have again stepped up to the mark to address a range of emerging issues.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health
Co-Convenors – Summer May Finlay and Yvonne Luxford
The 2015-2016 year began with a change in the SIG Co-Convenor leadership as we thanked Dr. Vanessa Lee for her many years of advocacy leadership within the SIG and we welcomed our new SIG Co-Convenor Ms. Summer May Finlay.
This year there have been a number of significant issues where the SIG has been involved in advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
As in previous years, the PHAA participated in the Close the Gap Progress and Priorities Report to coincide with the Prime Minister’s annual report card to Parliament on progress made to reduce Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander disadvantage. In addition to the Close the Gap report, March 2016 was the 10th anniversary of the Close the Gap Campaign. To recognise this milestone the PHAA released a statement reflecting on the progress to date and the areas that need additional focus.
This year the PHAA have supported the Redfern Statement. The Redfern Statement takes a social determinates of health approach to policy and led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations. The Statement outlined how governments could work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander Organisations as well as proposed solutions. The PHAA signed the statement as a supporter. In response to the Statement, the Labor party, at National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples launched their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander plan. Ms. Finlay was able to attend the launch and collaborated with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander VP to release a statement on behalf of the PHAA.
The SIG has also been engaged on the organising committee for the15th World Congress of Public Health which will be held in Melbourne in April 2017, with Ms Finlay representing the SIG.
In addition to advocacy the SIG has been looking at how we can engage out members more actively and have conducted a survey to identify priorities and methods of engagement. This information will allow the co-conveners to engage better with members and focus our advocacy.
The SIG has also been working on a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Vice president and the PHAA Board. The process for undertaking the RAP has been agreed to by the Board and the development will occur in the next financial year.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 57 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Alcohol
Co Convenors – Mike Daube and Julia Stafford
The objectives of the Alcohol Special Interest Group are to: • Provide a focal point for discussion of and action on alcohol issues; • Support advocacy, networking and collaboration on alcohol issues; • Ensure that action on alcohol is represented in the activities of the PHAA
The Alcohol SIG contributed submissions to a range of inquiries, reviews and consultations: • The Alcohol SIG worked with the PHAA Queensland branch to prepare a submission to the Queensland Government’s Inquiry into Tackling Alcohol-Fuelled Violence Legislation Amendment Bill 2015. PHAA strongly supported the measures proposed in the Bill and commended the Queensland Government for pursuing an evidence-based, comprehensive approach to reducing alcohol-related violence and other harms. PHAA representatives from the Queensland Branch and National Office presented to the Committee following the written submission. • The Alcohol SIG worked with the PHAA South Australia branch to prepare a submission to the review of the SA Liquor Licensing Act. PHAA encouraged population level, evidence-based, proactive approaches to preventing harm from alcohol, with a focus on reducing the availability of alcohol. An Alcohol SIG co-convenor represented PHAA at a meeting in Adelaide of health/medical groups with Mr Timothy Anderson QC who led the review. The Alcohol SIG joined with other health/medical groups to prepare a follow up submission after the meeting. Evidence and policies advocated by PHAA were strongly represented in the report and recommendations of the review. • The Alcohol SIG supported follow up activity regarding the updated Commercial Television Industry Code of Practice which came into effect in late 2015. The updated Code failed to address concerns about young people’s exposure to alcohol promotion on television. The Alcohol SIG will continue to work with colleague organisations, including the McCusker Centre for Action on Alcohol and Youth, to seek action to amend the Code to reduce young people’s exposure to alcohol promotion. Significant activities for the Alcohol SIG also included: • Contribution to regular media coverage of alcohol issues. • Leading the revision of the PHAA Alcohol Policy in mid-2016. Policy directions remained consistent; the update focused on replacing outdated statistics, ensuring consistency with other policy documentation and complying with the required format. • Ongoing active involvement in the National Alliance for Action on Alcohol (NAAA). The Alcohol SIG continued to work with NAAA member organisations to progress state and federal policy issues to reduce harm from alcohol.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 58 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Support for PHAA in organising the Global Alcohol Policy Conference 2017 to be held in Melbourne in October 2017 in collaboration with the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), NAAA and the Global Alcohol Policy Alliance. • Participation in the PHAA Board meeting in February 2016.
Child Health
Co-Convenors – Colin MacDougall and Elisha Riggs
The objectives of the Child Health Special Interest Group are to:
• provide a focal point for discussion of and action on child health issues; • provide a formal vehicle for networking, advocacy and collaboration in public health nutrition; • promote development of a framework for education and professional development of public health workers interested in child health, and; • ensure that child health is represented in the affairs of the PHAA.
During the year we welcomed the contribution as co-convenor Sarah Rogers, an MPH student at University of Melbourne. We are continuing to work with the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) and met with them to develop a more formal advocacy relationship. This will be based on the Child Healthy Equity Statement we published in the ANZ Journal of Public Health (MacDougall, Riggs and Lee 2014). We are now working through the PHAA to develop a Position Statement to guide policy and engagement with other SIGs and child focussed agencies.
• As part of our plan to involve other SIGs we worked with the Women’s Health SIG continue to pursue advocacy opportunities on the topic of reducing violence against women and their children.
Ecology & Environment
Convenor: Peter Tait
I would like to thank the committee: Michael Bentley, Liz Hanna, Melissa Haswell, Adrian Heard, Terese Lewis, Roseanne Peel, Michael Fonda, Rosalie Schultz, Glenda Verrinder, Jo Walker and Joe Hlubucek for the support and efforts they have made during the year. A thank you also to the other SIG members who have responded to calls for help this year. Finally thanks go to the Branch Presidents, other SIG Conveners, National Office and our CEO for support and assistance on many issues.
EESIG activity has continued on: • Defending a Safe Climate by publicizing the harms from fossil fuel use and promoting the benefits of the transition to renewable energy. We have continued close collaboration with the Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) on the Energy Choices and Health campaign and to develop a campaign for a National Strategy for Climate Health and Wellbeing. With the Environmental Health Group of the WFPHA and CAHA we developed and ran the Climate Change & Health Policy Assessment Project. PHAA has
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 59 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
continued to support the Divestment Campaign. Peter Tait represented PHAA in the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Public Forums - Healthy Environment. • Resisting proposals to expand the nuclear industry in South Australia and the NT. • Developing a policy basis for PHAA action on chemicals and broader environmental health. SIG members created and supervised an ANU Medical School Population Health project on chemical regulation framework. • A continued a watching brief on Australian governments’ response to lead pollution exposures. • Advocating for recognition of health impacts from weak environmental protections in the Activity Summary
Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement and we Activity \ Safe Nuclear Eco- Other contributed to the PHAA JSCOT Submission on topic Climate determinants issues & the TPP. / Population Energy • Including ecological and social determinants of health in the 2015 Population Health Congress. Submissions 4 3 4 1
This entailed close collaborations with several PHAA branches and other SIGS, and many external organisations.
The SIG continued to represent PHAA on several external committees: • Michael Fonda: the Australian Nuclear Free Alliance, Rare Earth’s working group • Joe Hlubucek: the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme, Strategic Consultative Committee • Melissa Haswell Elkins: Protect Sydney Water Campaign • Rosalie Schultz: Media advisor re climate change health issues for Climate Council in NT
The full EESIG activity report is on the EESIG webpage.
The role of political ecology is to reveal the political and economic power relationships that shape human interaction with the natural world and to present and advocate for a socio-economic model that places the good functioning and wellbeing of the environment as a top priority for human health.
Evidence, Research and Policy in Complementary Medicine
Convenor: Jon Adams
The ‘Evidence, Research and Policy in Complementary Medicine’ SIG (established in late 2011) continues to grow in membership and the activities/initiatives of the SIG over the last 12 months have been extensive.
2016 has seen the SIG continue to develop its links with the respective Special Interest Groups at the Chinese Preventive MedicaI Association (CPMA), Brazilian Collective Health Association (ABRASCO), Public
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 60 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Health Association of South Africa (PHASA), Indonesian Public Health Association (IAKMI) and the American Public Health Association (APHA) SIG on Alternative and Complementary Health Practice.
Some of our SIG membership has also more recently developed ties and collaborations with members of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Central American Integrative System (CAIS), the World Bank and Nicaraguan Ministry of Health to provide input to policy and practice development and national and regional strategies around traditional medicine use and practice in Latin America.
Dr Jon Wardle from our SIG Committee attended the World Health Assembly in Geneva in May 2016 as a guest of PHAA’s federation WFPHA to meet with the Traditional Medicine Office at WHO to ascertain strategic priorities in CAM to inform the SIG’s strategic developments moving forward.
SIG members are also currently providing input to the development of critical public health capacity in traditional medicine for a number of universities in Columbia, South Africa, India and Zambia.
Finally, members of the SIG Committee are editing an international research book entitled ‘the Public Health and Health Services Research of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Health’ due to be published by Imperial College Press in 2017. This 15 chapter text is being co-edited and co-authored with colleagues from IAKMI, PHASA, APHA, CPMA and ABRASCO among others.
Food & Nutrition
SIG Co-Convenors – Helen Vidgen and Julie Woods
FANSIG has had another busy year thanks to the support of our active executive committee and membership.
Work continued towards advocacy on an Australian Food and Nutrition Policy led by Helen Vidgen. This is being done in partnership with Heart Foundation, Dietitians Association of Australia and Nutrition Australia. Specific activities have been: • Meeting with Commonwealth Department of Health officers responsible for the policy • Meeting with the Minister’s office • Calls for a policy in various media releases including pre-election • Development of a draft joint statement and background paper edited by Rosemary Stanton
In addition, this year FANSIG contributed to food regulations work, specifically: • PHAA position statement on the Declaration of Oils on Ingredient lists led by Julie Woods • FSANZ Infant Formula review led by Julie Woods and Judy Seal • Sodium Nutrient Reference Value review led by Julie Woods, Mark Lawrence and Heather Yeatman • Voluntary addition of Vitamin D to breakfast cereals led by Julie Woods
A nutrition thought leaders meeting on the Health Star Rating system was also held in December 2015.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 61 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
We reviewed the following policy statements • Food Security for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples joint policy statement and background paper with Indigenous Allied Health Association, VACCHO or NACCHO, Red Cross, Dietitians Association of Australia, Heart Foundation led by Holley Jones, with support from Katherine Cullerton and Jennifer Browne • Healthy Weight Policy Statement, led by Patricia Carter and Kathryn Backholer • Genetically Modified Foods Policy Statement, led by Judy Carman • Breastfeeding and Infant Nutrition policy, led by the Women Health SIG with input by Simone Braithwaite • Preconception Health and Fertility Policy by the Women Health SIG with input by Simone Braithwaite
We were proactive and reactive in our media presence. Of particular note are: • The re-release of the Burden of Disease data to collectively report on diet • Lancet report on global obesity rates • Sugar sweetened beverage tax • GST and fresh foods
Particular thanks to Christina Pollard and Heather Yeatman for their media work.
Health Promotion
Convenor – Carmel Williams
Over the past year the Health Promotion Special Interest Group has continued to attract new members many of them students and early career professionals. In response, the SIG has focussed its work program on supporting the development needs of early career practitioners. The program has included range activities such as supporting mentoring programs, early career night consultations and providing lectures and advice to undergraduate health promotion courses.
A number of policies have been presented to the Health Promotion SIG for review. These included a further revision of the HIV/AIDS Policy to ensure the PHAA stated its support for the new HIV rapid testing process. In addition a new draft policy on “Infant Male Circumcision” was presented for consideration. Following limited consultation, where questions were raised and issues identified, the draft policy has been referred back to PHAA head office for further discussion and clarification.
Immunisation
Co-Convenors –Angela Newbound and Michelle Wills No Jab No Pay Legislation
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 62 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Preparing for and assisting providers with the implementation of the No Jab, No Pay policy has been the major focus of the Immunisation SIG this past year.
On 2nd November 2015, the Public Health Association (PHAA) was one of many key stakeholders who presented concerns relating to the No Jab, No Pay policy at the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee Inquiry into the Social Services Legislation Amendment (No Jab, No Pay) Bill 2015.
The PHAA stated it was keen to see a policy that addressed the structural and practical barriers to increasing immunisation coverage, therefore did not support the No Jab, No Pay policy in its current form. The PHAA has a number of concerns relating to the No Jab No Pay policy and the adverse effect it will have on children. Using family tax benefits as the vehicle to increase immunisation rates, not only financially deprives parents; it also deprives children. Whilst the policy is aimed at encouraging parents to immunise their children, the PHAA had concerns the policymakers may not have fully considered either the basis for or the implications of the policy.
The PHAA acknowledges there are many reasons for children to be under immunised. Parents experiencing social, geographical, physical and psychological disadvantage and limited access to services are most likely to have children ‘overdue for immunisation’. Vaccine refusing and vaccine hesitant parents also have unvaccinated or under vaccinated children for a variety of reasons such as fear of adverse events (perceived or previously experienced), and often find it difficult to find information to ease these fears. Anecdotally, they are not comfortable discussing their fears with a pro vaccination GP as they feel they are either wasting the GP’s time, or they will feel pressured into vaccinating the child. Addressing these structural and practical barriers would be a more appropriate approach to increasing immunisation uptake.
The PHAA requested that providers and parents received adequate lead-up time before the implementation of any policy as significant as this on, however, despite concerns raised, the Bill passed the Senate on 23rd November 2015.
The introduction of this policy has significantly increased clinical workload of both public and private immunisation providers. Additional demand on practice nurses and increased attendance at immunisation clinics has resulted in financial disadvantage for many organisation, but despite this, providers have forged ahead extending nurse hours to cope with demand for planning complex catch-up programs, administering catch-up vaccines and uploading new and historical immunisation data. These activities along with initiation of quality improvement process within their organisations, are expected to increase immunisation rates across all ages.
The PHAA Immunisation SIG was instrumental in exposing the plight of newly arrived refugee immunisation service providers to the Commonwealth. This advocacy resulted in a small funding grant for these providers to upload immunisation records for children aged 7 – 12 years of age to the ACIR in a narrow 5 week
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 63 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 window. The providers succeeded in uploading a total of 17,344 immunisation records. A tremendous achievement!
The Immunisation SIG will watch with keen interest the introduction of Zostavax vaccine on the National Immunisation Program on 1st November 2016, the change from the Australian Immunisation Register (ACIR) to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) in September 2016 and the change from the HPV Register to the Australian Schools Vaccination Register (ASVR) in 2017.
The PHAA Immunisation SIG will continue to monitor the political environments and challenge proposed policy changes if they will adversely affect the ongoing success of the immunisation program.
Injury Prevention
Co-Convenors – Richard Franklin and Lyndal Bugeja
The Injury Prevention SIG continued its work in advocating for greater recognition of injury prevention at the National and State &Territory levels, as no new National Injury Prevention Plan has been forth coming. To help member contribute to and be part of the Injury Prevention SIG we hold regular (bi-monthly) meetings where we discuss issues which need to be addressed, PHAA policies, and generally try and connect up people across the injury prevention spectrum.
The focus of the discussions remained on the absence of a national strategy for injury prevention. Given the intersection of injury with many other areas public health, the development of a report card was been raised and will be the focus of work of the IP SIG for 2016-17. Discussions also continued with the Australian Injury Prevention Network about working together to raise awareness of the burden and harms resulting from injury at the state, territory and national level and to convene workshops and seminars to promote injury prevention. Both the convenors attended the 2015 National Injury Prevention Conference and continued the discussion about how the PHAA and AIPN can have a stronger relationship in working together in preventing injuries.
Last year fall related injury policy and firearms policy was updated and the next policy we are working on are the overall injury prevention policy and the burns and scalds. It is clear there is a need for greater investment in falls prevention, and with the number the number of firearms in Australia increasing we need to be ever vigilant around firearm safety.
International Health
Co-Convenors - Jaya Earnest and Brahm Marjadi
The International Health Special Interest Group (IH SIG) has been involved in a number of advocacy, conference and support activities since August 2015. This short summary details the activities:
Attendance at the PHAA Board Members and SIG conveners’ face to face meeting
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 64 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Professor Jaya Dantas Dr Brahm Marjadi– the SIG convenor and co-convenor attended the face to face meeting of the PHAA Board and other SIG conveners at the PHAA conference in in Hobart in September 2015.
Annual General Meeting & National SIG meetings The International Health Special Interest Group Annual General Meeting during the PHAA Conference in September 2015. The Convenor and/or Co-convenor have attended the SIG conveners’ meetings via teleconference during the year.
Conference abstract reviewing: Members of the IH SIG and the committee reviewed abstracts for the following conferences: • 2015 September PHAA annual conference, for submissions in International, Refugee and Migrant Health. • 2015 November National Complex Needs Conference
Conference and Congress session contributions: • 2015 PHAA annual conference: International, Refugee and Migrant Health session chairing and Prof Dantas presented a session on her research with refugee youth. • 2015 Population Health Congress: facilitated and presented a Personally Arranged Learning Session (PeArLs) titled Ethical Dilemmas and Ensuring Mutual Beneficence in International Health Research. • At the 2015 National Complex Needs conference, Prof Dantas presented a paper and displayed an exhibition on a refugee photovoice project.
Sponsorship & Scholarships • IH SIG along with PEH SIG supported Dr Belinda Townsend to attend the DFAT TPP deliberations in Perth and New Zealand. • There is a plan to provide student scholarships for the World Public Health Congress in Melbourne 2017
Policy update • The IH SIG will work with PEH, WH and PHC SIGs in 2016 to convert the Maternal Mortality and Social Determinants of Health position paper into a policy for 2017. • IH SIG supported the Environmental Health SIG in the updating and revising the Nuclear Weapons policy.
Advocacy The IH has supported and endorsed the following advocacy activities during the year: • PHAA media releases and joint statement with CH and Mental Health SIG on Children in Detention • Signing a national petition on Academic for Refugees on closing down offshore detention centres and a more humane treatment of Asylum seekers. • Supporting the High Court Challenge to the Border Force Act.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 65 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Supporting PHAA representative, Dr Belinda Townsend to attend and speak from a public health perspective at the the Perth & Auckland Public Forum: TPP & RCEP trade deals - Who will benefit from new trade rules agreements. • Supported the Public Health Association of Australia as a signatory to the Pledge for a Just Refugee Policy • Answered the call on all academic for refugees: #LetThemStay national social media action Friday. • Signed the Open Letter on Affordable Access to Higher Education for Refugees and Asylum Seekers on TPVs
Additional Information • The International Health SIG will be contributing three articles to in-touch in the near future. • The PHAA Facebook page and twitter for the International Health SIG went live in November 2015. These are moderated by Penelope Strauss and Claire Rogers. • Prof Dantas visited Cuba and was hosted by the Cuban Society of Public Health where she met with members and did a presentation and visited ELAM (the world renowned Latin American School of Medicine) • IH SIG will commence an international internship program commencing in 2017. • IH SIG convenors are discussing a potential collaboration with the People’s University
Justice Health
Co Convenors: Stuart Kinner & Tony Butler
Over the past year the Justice Health SIG has been progressing an existing program of work exploring the legal basis for prisoners' exclusion from Medicare and the PBS, and potential avenues for policy reform. A paper summarising this work is currently under review with an Australian journal.
Mental Health
Co Convenors: Mike Smith & Kristy Sanderson
The Mental Health Special Interest Group executive consists of: Fiona Cocker, Hannah Bennett, Samantha Battams & Melissa Raven. The Mental Health SIG has a strong relationship with head office and is working with Alex Culledon to continue to build the profile of mental health within the Public Health Association of Australia.
The SIG has continued to advocate for the release of children in detention. The SIG has recently expressed an interest working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander SIG and the Children’s Health SIG regarding the high rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders children and adolescents in detention.
An area the MH SIG is focusing on is national mental health reform. The Mental Health SIG is awaiting recommendations from the Expert Reference Group that was selected by the federal government to review
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 66 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 the National Mental health Commission report into mental health. We will also provide a submission into the senate committee into mental health.
A survey has been distributed amongst the membership to canvass the membership and invite opinion on the direction of the MH SIG. We are also hoping to re-invigorate the committee to continue our current goals and develop new goals.
The MH SIG reviewed our Mental Health policy and a more robust and specific policy was submitted with input from the MH SIG membership and PHAA members.
After some delay we have submitted our policies on Nutrition and Mental Health Position Statement and a Physical Health and Mental Health Position Statement and will work with head office to have them reviewed and implemented.
The MH SIG supported the PHAA and the “Campaign calling for an end to our Pacific Black sites!” and signing the “Joint letter from health organizations opposing the Australian Border Force Act”.
We were again involved in the review of abstracts for the Second National Complex Needs Conference and provided funding for two presenters.
Our goals are ongoing and listed below:
• Continue to build the profile of the Mental Health SIG within the PHAA • Build membership and improve membership participation • Improve mental health outcomes in Australia
One Health
Convenor: Simon Reid
The One Health SIG continues to work to develop its mandate in this new and emerging field of public health practice. The main activity of 2015 was to conduct a survey of our membership to get a better understanding of the composition of the SIG and the motivations and expectations of members. The SIG has now begun to implement the findings of the survey by refreshing our committee and re-drafting the core SIG policy to better align with our membership. One key activity arising from the survey is to perform an analysis of the structure and function of key one health networks that have developed in Australia.
Several members of the SIG are actively involved in planning for the 4th International One Health Congress & the 6th Biennial Congress of the International Association for Ecology and Health that will be held in Melbourne (3-7 December 2016). The SIG intends to hold its AGM during the meeting.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 67 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Oral Health
Convenor: Bruce Simmons
In line with its work plan, the OHSIG has continued throughout the year to advocate for an effective public oral health system, for greater integration of oral health within primary health care, and for fairer, person and family centred and preventively oriented oral health (dental) care.
Through increased interest, our work plan has grown to include state, national and global activities. Our OHSIG Committee has similarly expanded with members from: QLD – Leonie Short, Tammy Allen , ACT- Russell McGowan, Claire Long, NSW – Claire Phelan, David Walker, Clive Wright, VIC – Natalie Savin, Jamie Robertson, TAS – Jenny McKibben, Silvana Bettiol SA – Kostas Kapellas, WA – Linda Slack-Smith, Hope Alexander, Student Rep-Pathik Mehta (doctoral student U Syd), NT – Bruce Simmons (Convenor), Secretary- John Rogers, Newsletter Editor- Shalika Hegde, Danielle Dalla is our OH Policy person at the PHAA.
Bruce has represented the PHAA, one of 10 member organisations on NOHA (National Oral Health Alliance) that has been re-formed to advocate for improved Commonwealth dental policies and funding in tough economic times.
The Victorian committee has met regularly to discuss strategies for improving access for the many disadvantaged populations for whom a multiplicity of barriers, most notably including cost, result in poorer oral health care for those most in need.
In Queensland there has been action to try and reverse the decision of the previous Newman government to make local councils responsible for funding local water fluoridation.
Australia’s second National Oral Health Plan 2015-2024 has been approved by COAG and its 4 Priority Populations and 6 Foundation Areas will provide the OHSIG with a structure for ongoing monitoring and review of progress towards fairer, more multi-disciplinarily integrated and effective oral health and primary health care systems.
David Walker and Bruce Simmons have continued their active membership on the international Oral Health Working Group (OHWG) of the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA). David contributed significantly to a 2015 WFPHA policy Resolution ‘The integration of oral health into primary health care and public health systems’. This has been followed up with a 2017 Resolution proposal for ‘The development of the oral health role of primary health care personnel’.
The OHWG is promulgating a Tender Proposal to establish collaborative Regional Oral Health Centres across the world ‘to promote oral health to neighbouring countries, train workforces and provide leadership guidance and development’. The action reflects evidence world-wide that oral health receives too little government support.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 68 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Warm thanks go to all our members for their contributions to advocacy, research and the promotion of oral health across Australia and beyond.
OHSIG Membership: As at August 17th 2016, there were 65 members.
OHSIG Financial Position: As at 1st July 2016, balance of $2,878.96.
Political Economy of Health
Convenor – Deborah Gleeson
PHAA’s Political Economy of Health (PEH) SIG provides a space for public health people in Australia to assemble the evidence, share in the analysis and mobilise and advocate for health policies which are informed by a robust analysis of the global, political economic context. Our main activities over the last year have been continued advocacy focused on various international trade agreements Australia is negotiating with other countries.
The PEH SIG committee during 2015-16 included Deborah Gleeson (Convenor), David Legge (Deputy Convenor), Sharon Friel (ACT Representative), Tracy Schrader (QLD Representative), Paul Laris (SA Representative), Peter Sainsbury (NSW Representative) and Liz Moore (NT Representative).
The SIG held a 1.5 day pre-conference workshop and two in-conference workshops in September 2015. The pre-conference workshop involved a book club, where we shared reflections regarding the work of selected political economy writers and explored their relevance to health care and population health, and a writing workshop where we reviewed and discussed our own writing projects related to the political economy of health. An in-conference workshop entitled ‘The rise of private health insurance in primary health care: how should public health respond’ was held in conjunction with the Primary Health Care SIG. A second workshop conducted by PEH SIG focused on understanding and applying principles of political economy to population health issues. All workshops were well attended. A pre-conference workshop on the political economy of food and nutrition is planned for September 2016.
The Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP), which was signed in principle in February 2016 but has not yet been ratified, has continued to be a major focus of the SIG’s advocacy. This has included letters to ministers, press releases, opinion articles and submissions. PEH SIG Convener Deborah Gleeson represented PHAA in discussions with trade negotiators in the sidelines of the TPP Ministerial Meeting in Hawaii, August 2016. PHAA made a submission to the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties inquiry into the TPP in March 2016.
We have also undertaken advocacy regarding another regional trade agreement, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which also poses risks to public health in developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Our advocacy activities include:
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 69 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Belinda Townsend and Danielle Dalla represented PHAA at stakeholder consultations for RCEP negotiations held in Perth in April 2016, raising concerns relating to intellectual property, access to medicines and investor state dispute settlement. Belinda’s travel was funded by the PEH and IH SIGS. A 28 April media release was issued to time with the Perth round advocacy and Belinda represented PHAA at a public forum held in Perth during the negotiations. A June edition of Intouch piece on the Perth round was provided as a report back to PHAA members.
• PEH and IH SIGs also funded Belinda to represent PHAA at RCEP negotiations in Auckland in June 2016 to discuss concerns with chief negotiators and to intellectual property negotiators
• Belinda attended RCEP people’s strategy meeting in Malaysia in July (funded externally). This was very successful for building networks and we have formed an informal health group out of this meeting with regional people.
• PHAA joined a public letter calling on RCEP negotiations not to sign on to ISDS, and issued a August 5 press release about the letter.
In addition to the TPP and RCEP, we have also made a submission to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade about a proposed trade agreement between the European Union and Australia, and have joined with other regional non-government organisations in advocacy efforts regarding the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus.
In 2016 we undertook a major revision of PHAA’s Health Equity policy led by Deputy Convener David Legge, which involved an extensive consultation process including a member survey conducted by MPH student Rubina Amin, to which 122 members contributed their views.
Primary Health Care
Co-Convenors – Jacqui Allen and Gwyn Jolley
Committee: Veronica Perera-Muscat (Vic), Andrew Waters (WA), Joanne Sahdeo (WA), Hope Alexander (WA), Rachel Tham (Vic), David Lim (QLD), Shalomie Kiruba Shadrach(QLD), Teresa Lewis (QLD), Russell McGowan (ACT), Rosalie Schultz (NT) Sameera Ansari (NSW), Jo Walker (NSW)
The PHCSIG aims to advance primary health care policy, programs and practice. Action areas for 2015-16 were to: 1. Work with the national office to continue to develop a strategic approach for primary health care advocacy within PHAA. 2. Continue to develop partnerships and working relationships with external agencies on primary health care issues, including the Primary Health Networks, and the Alliance for Gambling Reform. 3. Support PHNs by contributing to design and establishment of a national on-line forum 4. Lead the review of the Gambling Industry policy for the PHAA
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 70 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
5. To facilitate and deliver a Primary Health Care workshop at the 2016 National Primary Health care Conference.
Activities and outcomes 2015-16 Conference workshops Two workshops were accepted for the Population Health Congress, Hobart, October 2015: • Population health planning and health promotion: opportunities and challenges to improve social determinants (with the Health Promotion SIG) • The rise of private health insurance in primary health care: how should public health respond? (led by Political Economy of Health SIG)
A workshop ‘Population health planning and health promotion: opportunities and challenges to improve social determinants’ was run at the National PHC Conference in Canberra in November 2015 aimed at PHNs. Thanks to David Lim and Helen Keleher for making this a very successful and interactive workshop. Presentations and outcomes from the two population health planning workshops have been collated into a resource and are available on the PHAA website.
Engagement with PHAA National Office • Gwyn Jolley attended the face-to-face meeting with the PHAA board and National Office in Canberra and gave a 2-minute presentation on the PHC SIGs activities. Feedback on the proposed PHAA strategic plan was sent to national office in April. • With the PEH SIG, a letter was sent to the PHAA Board outlining our concerns about sponsorship by Private Health Insurers and pharmaceutical companies of PHAA events. • David Lim sits on the NPHC Conference committee
Gambling control advocacy • The Gambling and Industry Policy is due for review this year. An invitation to comment on the draft went out to stakeholders from previous gambling policy reviews and to the PHC SIG Committee members. The revised policy was submitted to the PHAA National office at the end of May. In accordance with PHAA procedures re policy review, there will be further opportunity for all members to comment through consultation processes prior to the next PHAA AGM • The PHC SIG has drafted a topic for a literature review about gambling and public health with a focus on poker machines. This topic has been advertised to the La Trobe Public Health Masters students for their term 1 project and one student is conducting this literature review for the PHC SIG. We expect that the literature review will support further advocacy activities. • The PHC SIG became a member of the Alliance for Gambling Reform and Jacqui Allen is leading our advocacy re gambling harm prevention with the Alliance.
Engagement with members
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 71 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
A welcome email is sent to new members and regular email contact is maintained with all members.
The biannual newsletter continues to receive positive feedback and thanks go to the newsletter working group: Joanne Sahdeo, David Lim, Shalomie Kiruba Shadrach, Jo Walker, Rachel Tham, Jacqui Allen and all those who contributed articles throughout the year. We believe the newsletter is a testament to the diversity and commitment of Australian Primary Health Care consumers, service providers and academics.
Women's Health
Co-Convenors –Catherine Mackenzie and Louise Johnson
Committee: Louise Johnson (Vic), Mischa Barr (Vic), Angela Taft (Vic), Jenny Ejlak (Vic), Melissa Graham (Vic), Kerry Hampton (Vic), Bronwyn Silver (NT), Abbey Hamilton (NT), Mary Stewart (NSW), Sabrina Pit (NSW), Caroline Harvey (Qld), Danette Langbecker (Qld), Penelope Strauss (WA), Melissa Hobbs (ACT).
The WHSIG has again been active in its advocacy role this year. This has included development and revision of PHAA policies, submissions to federal and state governments on a range of women’s health issues and ongoing stakeholder engagement and advocacy across different sectors and the community. Some of this work has included:
Abortion law reform activities:
• Queensland: Labour MPs have allowed a conscience vote on the Abortion Law Reform (Woman’s Right to Choose) Amendment Bill 2016 which Mr Pyne has submitted to Parliament. Danette (Qld Branch and WHSIG committee) drafted a letter of support. Danette (with WHSIG committee support) drafted a submission addressing the ToR. • Victoria: We received follow up from Josie Lee (Greens) to those (including PHAA) who signed an open letter to the Victorian Premier about protecting abortion laws: https://infantviability.com.au/ The website includes links to the AMA position and fact sheets from Women's Health Victoria, as well the open letter. • NSW: The WHSIG and NSW Branch are working to support the introduction of an abortion law reform bill in NSW by Dr Mehreen Faruqi (NSW Greens).
National Reproductive Health Strategy:
• Last version is 2009: a working group have been drafting a 2 page document outlining key issues in reproductive health for the election. The group have drawn on: AWHN position paper, Contraception Policy, Abortion Policy, Preconception Health Fertility Policy and the Melbourne Declaration 2014.
Policies reviewed 2016:
• Breastfeeding Policy • Women’s Preconception Health Fertility Policy
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 72 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
• Domestic and Family Violence policy • Mammography screening policy-new policy
Submissions/letters to government:
• Letter to VIC Health Minister regarding Public Health and Wellbeing Amendment-August 2015 • Submission on the proposed Health (Patient Privacy) Amendment Bill 2015 in the Australian Capital Territory - September 2015 • Submission to Inquiry into Domestic Violence and Gender Inequality - March 2016 • Open Letter: A call for all political leaders to put safety first in family law - May 2016 • Letter to QLD MPs re abortion law reform - June 2016 • Letter of support regarding rescheduling ulipristal acetate as emergency contraception-June 2016
Addressing WHSIG membership:
• Two surveys have been disseminated; one for PHAA members and one for health profession students. We had over 180 PHAA member responses and 286 student responses. The WHSIG will use the information form these surveys to plan future work and engagement strategies with members and students. To date, preliminary findings suggest that much of the PHAA membership is unaware of WHSIG activities with the exception of policies.
WHSIG is an Equality Rights Alliance (ERA) member. The WHSIG is actively involved with several ERA working groups including the Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy Work Group, the Housing Work Group and the Mind the GAPP (Gender Aware Policies and Processes). Catherine McKenzie and Alex Culloden attended the annual meeting held in Canberra in May, Sabrina Pitt will be attending the Mind the GAPP meeting later in 2016.
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 73 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
Public Health Education and Research Trust
Report from the Trustees of the Public Health Education and Research Trust
Chair: Peter Trebilco With the consent of Trustees the Public Health Education and Research Trust was wound up during the year. PHAA now has Gift Deduction status, so this benefit of PHERT was no longer required. The modest funds were transferred to PHAA, and I would take this opportunity of suggesting that every member thinks of benefactions and donations to this very valuable organization to which we all belong with modest pride.
The others who deserve thanks for a somewhat unrewarding term of duty are the previous trustees.
I particularly express my thanks, and I expect those of the Board, to the current and the past trustees.
Peter Trebilco, LMPHAA
The list of PHERT committee members are as follows:
Peter Trebilco, Jeanne Daly, Peter Howat, Jane Freemantle, Christine Morris & Marion Carey
Public Health Research Advisory Group
Chair: Professor Fran Baum
The PHAA’s Public Health Research Advisory Group (PHRAG) aims to promote and advocate for public health research and development so that members, stakeholders and the Australian community will benefit from a sound, strategic and shared research base in public health. thank him for his contribution. I would like to thank all members of PHRAG for their contribution and Dr. Matt Fisher for acting as an honorary Executive Officer for PHRAG.
Professor Fran Baum
Chair
Membership of PHRAG 2014-15: Prof Fran Baum (Chair), Prof Ross Bailie, Prof Annette Dobson, Dr. Matt Fisher (Executive Officer), Prof Sharon Friel, Dr. Fahad Hanna, Ms Vanessa Lee, Prof John Lowe, Dr. John Marrone, Prof Sally Redman, Dr. Vanessa Rose, Assoc Prof Peter Sainsbury, Dr. Jonathan Wardle, Michael Moore (ex officio).
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 74 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
PHAA Financial Statements
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 75 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 76 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 77 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 78 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 79 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 80 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 81 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 82 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 83 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 84 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 85 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 86 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 87 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 88 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 89 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 90 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au PHAA ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16
20 Napier Close Deakin ACT Australia 2600 – PO Box 319 Curtin ACT Australia 2605 91 T (02) 6285 2373 F (02) 6282 5434 E [email protected] W www.phaa.net.au