Ahead of the Federal Budget this evening, the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) has a range of experts available to provide commentary and expertise on topics including the Australian Centre for Disease Control, vaping and tobacco control, mental health and oral health.
Adjunct Prof Terry Slevin, CEO, PHAA, says all eyes will be on whether the Government answers the call for adequate funding for the Australian Centre for Disease Control.
Australian Centre for Disease Control
“2023 is a milestone for public health in Australia because it’s when the Australian Government will give birth to its promised Australian Centre for Disease Control (ACDC). This new centre was promised by the Albanese Government as a part of their election campaign, and Australian public health experts will be combing the budget papers to see if the centre receives adequate funding to deliver on its promise and potential. We have been clear that funding needs to be in the hundreds, not tens of millions of dollars. “A well-resourced and funded ACDC is absolutely crucial to Australia’s ability to prepare for pandemics of the future, as well as tackling the growing threat of preventable disease in Australia.”
Vaping and tobacco
“The Public Health community enthusiastically welcomed the comprehensive package on tobacco and vaping control measures which included budget investments in campaigns for the broader and First Nations communities, smoking cessation efforts, and a boost in tobacco tax. All these measures, along with strong regulation on vaping, will help drive down tobacco smoking and recreational vaping.”
