Published on Monday, 29 June 2026 at 12:25:32 PM
SHIRE PRESIDENT INTRODUCTION
I am pleased to introduce our first Public Health Plan. This plan is integral to the health and wellbeing of our residents which is fundamental to our community’s resilience and sustainability. Council is very aware of its roles and responsibilities to provide services and facilities that support positive health outcomes. This Plan supports our integrated planning framework and provides a framework for activities that protect and promote our community’s health and wellbeing.
This inaugural plan has been developed around our existing health services and facilities. It is informed by local population health data and takes an adaptive approach to current and emerging local and regional health data in the context of the State Public Health Plan. It also reaffirms the Shires commitment to proactive, evidence-based planning and to supporting a healthy and resilient community both now and into the future.
Cr Julie Chester, Shire President
CEO MESSAGE
Local Government functions include key roles and responsibilities administered under the Local Government Act 1995 and the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1911. These provisions require the Shire to protect local communities’ health and wellbeing through maintaining our built environments, managing environmental hazards and health risks such as safe food, water and waste, and supporting incident management.
With this the Public Health Act 2016 (the Health Act) also requires all Local Governments to prepare local Public Health Plans (PHPlans). This plan must consider the State Public Health Plan objectives and informs our community business and strategic plans. The plan is informed by local population health profile data which is applied in a strengths-based approach to considering local health matters. The plan acknowledges the Shire’s existing health services and facilities, and looks to emerging data, collaborations and funding opportunities that support regional population health and wellbeing initiatives and local community stewardship.
As this is our first plan the process is progressive, starting with achievable objectives that can respond to initiatives and more up to date population health data. Ultimately the measure of this process will be our community’s ability to make healthier choices.
Samuel E Bryce, CEO
The Public Health Plan can be accessed HERE
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