The National Heart Foundation has welcomed last night’s Federal Budget announcement to allocate $9.7 million over three years to the Heart Foundation’s Walking program.
This announcement is part of the government’s goal under the National Preventive Health Strategy 2021-2030 to achieve a healthier Australia by 2030 through more physical activity, better nutrition and reducing the use of alcohol and other harmful drugs.
Heart Foundation CEO Professor Garry Jennings AO said this commitment will help improve the lives of many Australians.
“We know that with 85% of Australians not meeting recommended guidelines for physical activity so there is an urgent need to do more,” Professor Jennings said.
“Lack of physical activity remains a leading risk factor for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and poor mental health, and physical activity such as walking can reduce the risk of heart disease specifically by up to 35%.
Fortunately, as many of us have learnt through the COVID-19 pandemic, walking represents the most reliable, affordable, accessible, and feasible way to increase physical activity, particularly for vulnerable populations.
At present the Heart Foundation has a network of over 1110 active walking groups across Australia
plus the option of downloading a series of six-week free personal walking plans that provide education and advice on exercising.
With this funding Professor Jennings said the Heart Foundation is confident it will extend the Heart Foundation walking program to have over 400,00 Australians regularly walking by December 2025.
In addition the funding will cover supportive public education and communication programs to get more Australians moving and actively promote and support safer and more walkable built and natural environments for local communities.
“We thank the government for its support and recognition that physical activity is vital for healthy living at every age and every stage,” said Professor Jennings.
To locate a walking group near you – or download a walking plan visit walking.heartfoundation.org.au
