Our rural and remote communities experience many disadvantages compared to their urban counterparts. The risks posed by climate to health threaten to exacerbate many of the health inequalities already experienced by those in regional and rural areas.
With many rural and remote areas reliant on primary agriculture production and vulnerable to drought, bushfires, cyclones, floods and heatwaves, these areas stand to be disproportionately affected by the impacts of changes in climate. This is documented in the College Policy Position on Climate and Health.
The Policy team values the input of all members’ on policy issues as they arise, and this month is seeking feedback to inform a submission to government on the National Health and Climate Strategy.
The Australian Government has committed to the development of Australia’s first National Health and Climate Strategy, in recognition of the urgent need to mitigate health system emissions and support the health system and the community be better prepared for and resilient to the health impacts of climate change. Whilst the Consultation Paper discusses mitigation and adaptation separately, the Strategy acknowledges the interdependent relationship between these two areas and recognises building a climate resilient and sustainable health system encompasses both adaptation and mitigation. ACRRM’s submission will ensure a rural-proofing lens is applied to the Strategy.
Member input allows us to provide submissions and representations which are more powerful and more reflective of the realities of rural and remote practice on the frontline.
Please contact policy@acrrm.org.au at any time if you would like to provide feedback on a particular issue or consultation.
You can read more about the College’s work in Climate and Health on our website.