Draft for Public Consultation - City of West Torrens · 2014-07-08 · Public Health Plan - Draft...

Public Health Plan

Draft for Public Consultation

2 Public Health Plan - Draft for Public Consultation

Access to Document This document has been prepared by the City of West Torrens. You may access copies of this document from Council's website at www.westtorrens.sa.gov.au. You may download and print this document in unaltered form, only for your personal use or use by your organisation. Copyright This document is based on work by Council and other authors as cited. Apart from any permitted uses under the Copyright Act 1968, the work may be reproduced for study or training purposes, provided the source is acknowledged. Reproduction for commercial use requires prior written permission of the Council and the various sources cited. Disclaimer While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that the contents of this document are factually correct, the City of West Torrens does not accept responsibility for its accuracy or currency. As information is subject to change, the City of West Torrens shall not be liable for any loss or damage that may be occur through the use of, or reliance on, the contents of this document. Front Cover: Photo: Apex Park, September 2013 Document History Version Date Details Author Approver

1.0 17/4/2014 Draft for internal review Nathan Sim

Project Manager

2.0 3/05/2014 Draft to Executive Suzy Stiles

Manager

3.0 19/05/2014 Draft to Council Declan Moore

GM

http://www.westtorrens.sa.gov.au/


Message from the Mayor

Councils can influence the health of their communities in many ways, such as providing community facilities and libraries; health promotion; safe roads, footpaths and cycle ways; open space and public places that support physical activity and social interaction.

The City of West Torrens as the Local Public Health Authority has had, and will continue to have, a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of its community.

Council is one of many partners who must work cooperatively and collaboratively to help maintain and improve public health across its jurisdiction.

This Public Health Plan, the first of its kind for West Torrens, starts to develop the framework to assist health providers and partners address our community's aspirations for a healthy and inclusive city.

Hon. John Trainer Mayor City of West Torrens

July 2014


Production Acknowledgment

This document was produced by the City of West Torrens. With valuable assistance from those who contributed during consultation, including community members, Elected Members and staff of the City of West Torrens. Kaurna Acknowledgement

The City of West Torrens acknowledges the Kaurna Aboriginal people and their descendants are still and will always be the first peoples of the land. The City of West Torrens commits to valuing and supporting the Kaurna people’s inherent relationship to the land.

'Spirit of Family' by Sherry Rankine and Jacob Stengel.


Table of Contents

Table of Contents........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

1 Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

2 The City of West Torrens ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

3 Strategic Management Plans ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 9

4 The Role of Local Government in Public Health ................................................................................................................................................................................... 12

5 Legislative and Policy Context ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 14

6 The Determinants of Health ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 20

7 The State of Health in West Torrens .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21

8 Public Health Priorities ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 30

9 Audit of Council Activities that Support Public Health ......................................................................................................................................................................... 31

10 Strategy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 34

11 Next steps ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 50

Table of Figures

Figure 1 - Map of West Torrens ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

Figure 2 - Community Plan Vision and Mission .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 9

Figure 3 - Themes and Aspirations in the Community Plan .......................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Figure 4 - Corporate Planning Framework Hierarchy .................................................................................................................................................................................... 11

Figure 5 - Connection with Corporate Planning Framework ......................................................................................................................................................................... 16

Figure 6 - Determinants of Health ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 20

Figure 7 - Diez Roux A. Residential environments and cardiovascular health. J Urban Health:NY Acad Med 2003; 80(4) ............................................................................. 25

Figure 8 - Comparison of the Top 10 Disease Rates, by Category, in Western Adelaide ............................................................................................................................... 26

Kings Park


1 Executive Summary The City of West Torrens is in a state of economic change and growth, with new housing developments, roadways and shopping facilities. It is important that the decisions we make today outlast the city’s rapidly changing environment, now and into the future.

With an estimated resident population of approximately 58,000 the overall picture of West Torrens is of a culturally diverse community with a high proportion of older residents who are now entering the frail elderly stage.

It is also a community undergoing population renewal, with younger populations moving in and an increase in the number of children.

Our community comprises a broad range of social and cultural backgrounds with nearly 30% of our population speaking a language other than English at home.

Council provides, both independently and in partnership with many other government and community organisations, a diverse range of quality services and activities to the community that are continuously improving to meet their evolving needs.

Council is committed to achieving a sustainable future, balancing environmental, social, cultural and economic goals, while meeting its legal obligations as a member of the third tier of government.

The South Australian Public Health Act 2011 requires that local councils develop Public Health Plans.

The Act also establishes local councils as the local public health authority for their area, identifying them to be in the best position to lead and coordinate public health planning for their communities.

However, this does not mean that councils are themselves responsible for addressing every health issue that impacts their communities.

There are many partners, including State and Federal agencies and the community itself, who will need to work together to ensure success.

This new approach to public health in South Australia is expressed in 'South Australia: A Better Place to Live', the first State Public Health Plan.

The State Public Health Plan recognises that the scope of public health has been widened, and our new approach to public health recognises that the causes of illness and disease are heavily influenced by social, environmental and economic factors such as how we live, the environment we live in, how our community functions and our opportunities for education and employment.

Council is committed to achieving a sustainable future, balancing environmental, social, cultural and economic goals.

The City of West Torrens' Public Health Plan demonstrates how Council intends working to improve the health and wellbeing of its community and integrating 'health strategies' into its Strategic Management Planning, Review and Evaluation system.


2 The City of West Torrens The City of West Torrens is an attractive metropolitan location given its close proximity to the Adelaide Central Business District (CBD) and the coast, and easy access to a vast range of retailing opportunities and employment.

The West Torrens region was originally part of the Kaurna territory. The area that was to become West Torrens formed only a small part of the Kaurna homeland, but it possessed valuable resources in the River Torrens and the Patawalonga River.

Among South Australia’s first settled regions, scattered communities developed within the area during the mid-nineteenth century and united to form the District Council of West Torrens in 1853. In 1883, following demands from the residents adjoining Adelaide, the Town of Thebarton was recognised as a separate local government area. The reunification of the local governments of Thebarton and West Torrens occurred on 1 March 1997.

The City of West Torrens now comprises 36 square kilometres of Adelaide’s western metropolitan area. It is bounded by the Torrens River to the north, Port Road, East Terrace, the railway line to the east, ANZAC Highway, South Road, the Glenelg tramway and local streets around the Sturt River to the south and Gulf St Vincent and local streets to the west.

Our local government neighbours are the City of Charles Sturt to the north, the Cities of Adelaide and Unley to the east and the Cities of Marion and Holdfast Bay to the south.

Our City includes the suburbs of Ashford, Brooklyn Park, Camden Park, Cowandilla, Fulham, Glandore (part), Glenelg North (part), Hilton, Keswick (part), Kurralta Park, Lockleys, Marleston, Mile End, Mile End South, Netley, North Plympton, Novar Gardens, Plympton,

Richmond, Thebarton, Torrensville, Underdale, West Beach (part) and West Richmond.

Figure 1 - Map of West Torrens The greatest percentage of the land area is dedicated to residential development while the commercial areas comprise a range of industrial, logistic, distribution and retail establishments. Adelaide Airport Limited is a significant land holder within the City, taking up approximately 20% of the City’s total land area.

Approximately 6% of the total land area within the City is dedicated to public open space, including the River Torrens Linear Park, local


and neighbourhood parks, and other public open space such as public ovals and sporting grounds.

Council manages and maintains more than 530km of footpaths and shared paths and nearly 300km of road network. Its assets are valued in the order of $573 million. This includes infrastructure such as roads, footpaths and stormwater drainage, land and buildings including the Hamra Centre Library, St Martins aged care facility, community centres, parks, gardens and sporting facilities and plant and equipment.

Major landmarks and attractions of the City include the River Torrens, River Torrens Linear Park, Adelaide Airport, Santos Stadium, ETSA Park Netball Stadium, Adelaide Shores, the Richmond and Thebarton Ovals, and the Australian National Rail Passenger Terminal. Primary shopping centres are located at Kurralta Park, Torrensville and Hilton with other key retail outlets including the Mile End Homemaker Centre and Harbourtown.

At the last census in 2011, the City of West Torrens had a higher proportion of people aged in the independent, tertiary, and young workforce category (18-34), and a slightly lower proportion of couples with/without children and single parent families compared to Greater Adelaide. Correspondingly West Torrens has a lower proportion of children aged under 17.

West Torrens also has higher proportion of seniors aged 70+ compared to Greater Adelaide and the trends from 2006-11 show that our seniors are now moving into the elderly category (85+).

Analysis of the household/family types in 2011 showed there were a higher proportion of lone person households compared to Greater Adelaide, with two persons the common household type. This is

also matched by a higher proportion of one and two bedroom dwellings compared to Greater Adelaide, although three bedrooms is still the most common type of dwelling.

Looking at the growth in household types between 2006 and 2011,

growth is coming from couples with/without children and group

households, and a decrease in lone person households. Some of

the couples without children are pre-retirees, but most are younger,

with numbers of children beginning to grow.

Approximately 30% of the population of the City of West Torrens was born overseas, and 30% of our residents speak a language other than English at home. More people of non-English speaking ancestry and a larger percentage of overseas arrivals live in West Torrens compared to Greater Adelaide, with the largest groups being, India, Greece, China and Italy as well as those born in the United Kingdom.

Many residents of European heritage migrated to Australia in the second half of the twentieth century, whereas the past few years have seen many new migrants from non-European countries such as India, China, the Philippines, Malaysia and Bangladesh.

The overall picture is of a culturally diverse council undergoing population renewal, where our existing senior citizens are transitioning into the elderly category and younger populations are moving into the area.

Council provides, both independently and in partnership with other government and community organisations, a diverse range of quality services and activities to the community that are continuously improving to meet to their evolving needs.


3 Strategic Management Plans The Local Government Act 1999 identifies that one of the objectives of a council is to ‘be responsive to the needs, interests, and aspirations of individuals and groups within its community’ and ‘seek to provide services, facilities and programs that are adequate and appropriate’.

In particular, section 122 requires Councils to ‘develop and adopt plans for the management of its area, to be called collectively the strategic management plans’.

Strategic planning establishes the future direction for the entire council. It provides an opportunity for Council, in consultation with the local community and various other stakeholders, to determine its long-term objectives, evaluate its operations, including provision of services, and develop strategies to address the unique issues of the local area.

This forms the basis for the Council’s Mission, Vision and Values.

It also enables Council to identify opportunities to contribute to the achievement of State Government objectives, as outlined in South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) and explore the potential to work in partnership with other government organisations in service delivery and participate, where appropriate, in activities on a regional basis. The Public Health Plan is an example of such an opportunity.

3.1 Our Planning Structure

The Towards 2025 Community Plan Community Plan is the overarching document in Council’s suite of strategic management plans, which also includes the 10-Year Financial Management Plan, the Strategic Directions Report (Planning) and Council's Asset Management Plans (Buildings, Roads, Footpaths, Stormwater).

Figure 2 - Community Plan Vision and Mission

These are supported by a number of Corporate Plans including:

• Animal Management Plan

• Climate Change Action Plan

• Community Land Management Plans

• Flood Management Master Plan for Brown Hill & Keswick Creeks

• Open Space and Public Place Plan

• Public Health Plan (when endorsed)

• Strategic Bicycle Plan

• Transport Strategy

• Vision 2025 Strategic Directions Report

• Water Management Action Plan.


Our Community Plan has six broad themes, four are community focused and two corporate focused.

Figure 3 - Themes and Aspirations in the Community Plan

Under each theme, aspirations reflect the key issues identified through community consultation.


Long-term strategies have been identified to work towards achieving these community aspirations, as well as addressing challenges and opportunities that impact on Council’s operations.

Five-year strategies support the long-term strategies, and are implemented throughout the organisation via annual departmental service plans, employee job descriptions and performance agreements

The Public Health Plan has been developed in the context of the Community Plan and Council's other management plans, and the strategies identified in Section 10 are aligned with and derived from all these plans.

The implementation, monitoring, review, reporting and modification will also be managed in the context of Council's corporate planning framework, which is described in Figure 4.

Figure 4 - Corporate Planning Framework Hierarchy


4 The Role of Local Government in Public Health Public Health is much more than just the timely provision of local health services, and local government has long held a key role in public health, albeit using different terminology.

Most of the substantial contributions (other than immunisation) to advancing and maintaining our state of public health have resulted from community infrastructure programs focused on sanitation, clean water, housing, environment and public safety. Local government is a key player in each of those domains.

The ambit of public health has expanded to incorporate the social determinants of health: including the conditions into which people are born, grow, live, work and age, and we recognise that the health of individuals and populations is shaped by broad societal factors that lie outside the influence of the traditional health sector.

The determinants of health and wellbeing include the social, economic and physical environment and local government is both a key provider and influencer in these environments.

4.1 Public Health

Public Health1 means the health of individuals in the context of

the wider health of the community.

Without limiting the definition [above], public health may involve a combination of policies, programs and safeguards designed -

(a) to protect, maintain or promote the health of the community at large, including where 1 or more persons may be the focus of any safeguards, action or response; or

1 Source: Section 3 (1) and (2) Public Health Act 2011

(b) to prevent or reduce the incidence of disease, injury or disability within the community.

Our Public Health Plan (the Plan) provides a framework for identifying and addressing public health issues, and delivery of the objectives of the Public Health Act (2011) (the Act) to maintain and advance the quality of life and health of all citizens. The key objectives of the Act are —

(a) to promote health and wellbeing of individuals and communities and to prevent disease, medical conditions, injury and disability through a public health approach; and

(b) to protect individuals and communities from risks to public health and to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, a healthy environment for all South Australians and particularly those who live within disadvantaged communities;

The Act applies a universal and preventative responsibility by establishing a general duty of care for all to maintain public health. This Plan is guided by the South Australian Public Health Plan and endeavours to build upon the principles of participation and partnership, recognising that promoting, protecting and improving public health requires a collaborative effort from local, state and commonwealth governments, private and non-government providers and the community. Public health planning is a dynamic environment and this version of the Plan attempts to identify public health issues and outline


how we intend to address them; or identify who is already addressing them in our community, or ought to, and then determine what role (if any) Council might have in supporting existing providers; or perhaps establishing formal partnerships to address specific public health issues requiring such an approach.

Future revisions of our Plan will seek to integrate and strengthen our role in delivering on the objectives contained within the Act, and other legislation, including the need to identify, clarify and/or assist define, the roles for public health partners within West Torrens.

While our Plan is a public document, the primary audiences for it include, but are not limited to:

The Elected Members and staff comprising the City of West Torrens;

Local health service professionals and providers (governmental, commercial and community);

State and local government officers involved in the provision and management of physical and social infrastructure;

Professionals who impact upon the built environment including; planners, development assessment officers, builders, engineers;

Those involved in community development;

Public health providers in West Torrens,

The State's Chief Public Health Officer.

4.2 Parties Delivering the Plan

The Act identifies the City of West Torrens as a public health authority, placing it in the best position to lead and coordinate

public health planning for the community including the development of Public Health Plans. This does not mean that the City of West Torrens is directly responsible or accountable for resolving public health issues. Over time, the Plan will assist Council in determining public health issues that will require its advocacy before State and Commonwealth Governments, or formal 'Public Health Partners', to enlist their collaboration to ensure that local public health priorities are addressed. Public health partner authorities will be established by regulation or declaration. Once declared, Council will approach these agencies (government or non-government) to obtain their agreement to participate in public health planning and to assume responsibility for relevant objectives or strategies identified in the Plan.

4.3 Monitoring and Reporting

In accordance with the Public Health Act (2001), the City of West Torrens will provide the Chief Public Health Officer with a two-yearly report that sets out our assessment of the extent to which, during the reporting period, our Public Health Plan has been implemented. The findings of the two yearly reporting will also inform the five yearly reviews of this Plan, as required under the Act. Progress on this Plan will also be monitored through its inclusion in regular quarterly reports to Council which monitor implementation of annual departmental service plans and KPIs.


5 Legislative and Policy Context

5.1 Public Health Act 2011

Section 51 (8 and 9) of the Public Health Act (2011) states that- A regional public health plan must—

(a) comprehensively assess the state of public health in the region; and

(b) identify existing and potential public health risks and provide for strategies for addressing and eliminating or reducing those risks; and

(c) identify opportunities and outline strategies for promoting public health in the region; and

(d) address any public health issues specified by the Minister following consultation with SAPHC and the LGA; and

(e) include information as to—

(i) the state and condition of public health within the relevant region, and related trends; and

(ii) environmental, social, economic and practical considerations relating to public health within the relevant region; and

(iii) other prescribed matters;

In addition, a plan must—

(a) include information about issues identified in any plan, policy or strategy specified by the Minister or SAPHC; and

(b) address, and be consistent with, any intergovernmental agreement specified by the Minister.

Our Plan is structured to meet these legislative requirements.


5.2 Seven Strategic Priorities

In early 2012, the South Australian Premier outlined seven immediate priorities for the state’s future, stating they would deliver the focused action needed to achieve the visions, goals and targets outlined in South Australia’s Strategic Plan. The seven priorities are:

Creating a vibrant city

Safe communities, healthy neighbourhoods

An affordable place to live

Every chance for every child

Growing advanced manufacturing

Realising the benefits of the mining boom for all

Premium food and wine from our clean environment.

Our Plan contributes to the delivery of these priorities by outlining how people can lead healthy lives and feel safe in their communities.

5.3 State Public Health Plan

South Australia: A Better Place to Live is the State's first public health plan. The absence of 'health' in the title recognises that public health is not just the domain of health related professionals. A Better Place to Live aims to build a framework to support public health planning and protect and improve the health and wellbeing of South Australians. A Better Place to Live outlines four public health priority areas,;

1. Stronger and Healthier Communities and Neighbourhoods for All Generations

2. Increasing Opportunities for Healthy Living, Healthy eating and Being Active

3. Preparing for Climate Change 4. Sustaining and Improving Public and Environmental Health

Protection. Our Plan addresses these four priority areas.

5.4 State Strategic Plan

South Australia’s Strategic Plan sets the broad objectives and targets for the State for which all other plans should have regard. This includes a priority entitled Our Health. This Plan will endeavour to address a number of the Strategic Plan's specific goals and targets, including:

Goal: We make healthy choices in how we live. Target 78: Increase the healthy life expectancy of South Australians to

73.4 years (6%) for males and 77.9 years (5%) for females by 2020 (baseline: 1999-01)

Target 79: Increase the average healthy life expectancy of Aboriginal males to 67.5 years (22%) and Aboriginal females to 72.3 years (19%) by 2020 (baseline: 1999-03)

Target 80: Reduce the smoking rate to 10% of the population and halve the smoking rate of Aboriginal South Australians by 2018 (baseline: 2008)

Target 81: Reduce the proportion of South Australians who drink at risky levels by 30% by 2020 (baseline: 2007)

Goal: We educate young people about healthy living. Target 82: Increase by 5 percentage points the proportion of South

Australian adults and children at a healthy body weight by 2017 (baseline: 2009)


Goal: We are physically active. Target 83: Increase the proportion of South Australians participating in

sport or physical recreation at least once per week to 50% by 2020 (baseline: 2011- 12)

Goal: We assist people to deal with all forms of illness

and to live a satisfying life where they can contribute to their community.

Target 84: By 2013, 90 per cent of patients presenting to a public hospital emergency department will be seen, treated, and either discharged or admitted to hospital within four hours. (baseline: 2011)

Target 85: Increase, by 5 percentage points, the proportion of people living with a chronic disease whose self-assessed health status is good or better (baseline: 2003)

Target 86: Equal or lower the Australian average for psychological distress by 2014 and maintain thereafter (baseline: 2001)

5.5 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide

The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide: A volume of the South Australian Planning Strategy outlines the spatial land use framework to support a population growth of 560 000 people across the Greater Adelaide region.

This 30 Year Plan recognises key challenges including population growth, an aging population profile and climate change.

Our Plan has regard for the 30 Year Plan's principles of:

accessibility,

social Inclusion and fairness

healthy, safe and connected communities

affordable living, and

climate change resilience.

5.6 City of West Torrens Community Plan

Council's Community Plan represents our community's long term vision and aspirations.

With regard to public health' the Community Plan states that: "The health and safety of the community are always prominent issues. Council promotes community health through public health education and services, including the provision of immunisation, food safety monitoring, public health monitoring and animal management. Council also supports police and community groups to promote awareness of local safety issues".

The multifaceted nature of public health means that our Public Health Plan will contribute to all four priority areas of Council's Community Plan, being Community Life, Built Environment, Natural Environment and City Prosperity, and the long-term strategies that support them.

More explicitly, this Plan directly assists in the delivery of the Community Plan's long term strategy to 'foster a sense of health and safety within the community'.

To ensure delivery of this vision, Council has adopted a Corporate Planning Framework (Figure 3) to aid strategic management and the translation of the vision into operational outcomes.

Figure 5 - Connection with Corporate Planning Framework


5.7 Our Place Consultation

In 2013-14 the 'Our Place: Share your Story. Shape Your Future' program of comprehensive community consultation and engagement asked residents, community groups, institutions, and agencies what they like about our city, what could be improved, what they'd like to see in the future, and how together we could go about making this a more enjoyable and accessible place to live.

Approximately 1,350 comments and conversations were received or recorded. The feedback from Our Place was used to inform and update a number plans, including the Towards 2025 Community Plan, Council's key strategic management plan as well as this Public Health Plan.

What the public conversation told us…

The feedback received as part of the general public phase of Our Place was generally positive and constructive. Our residents said that they experience West Torrens as an area where people feel a sense of place and identity, and the area regarded as being well located, well connected, quiet and safe.

There is a feeling that West Torrens is still a relatively affordable area, with good public transport and access to services, parks and community facilities. The Linear Park, Hamra Centre Library and the Westside Bikeway stand out as highly valued community resources.

People enjoy the cultural diversity and are keen to contribute to the community, however they are sometimes unsure how to connect to volunteer projects or programs.

Community members notice and appreciate our open spaces and parks, and are supportive of any upgrades to our public realm. There is a clear desire for parks to be well-maintained, especially those that cater for children and dogs.

There is a general desire to improve the aesthetics of West Torrens, especially streetscapes with more trees and well maintained and safe footpaths. There was particular support for improving cycling and walking facilities and off-road paths.

Many people value the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle via walking, cycling or sport; and also that West Torrens remains a child and family friendly area whilst being supportive of people as they age. There is a need to cater for an ageing population with convenient and accessible services, facilities, and home help also ranks highly.

People understand the need for smaller housing suitable for smaller and older households, but still wish to maintain a level of housing stock for families.


What talking to our representative groups and agencies told us…

Consistent across all groups was considerable determination to

create a strong and positive future for their group, West Torrens

and the State as a whole. The community groups we spoke to

view West Torrens as a safe and inclusive community and a

good place to live, work and play.

Groups and agencies see the future of South Australia as having

a more diverse but ageing population, and how to protect and

support the community as South Australia moves to a post-

manufacturing economy was a popular topic amongst

interviewees.

How to provide for the demand for aged care support and

services, meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse

clients, and the changing employment market were key concerns

as groups and agencies looked to the future. For many agencies

the challenge is to see the changes to our population and our

economy as positive, and to create stronger healthy communities

for all generations.

There were consistent themes across groups and agencies with

a focus on planning for the needs of modern communities. This

included facility provision, supporting new small business,

volunteering, and providing a positive environment for youth and

people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Neighbouring councils shared important insights into common

issues such as ageing infrastructure, traffic and parking

management, and improving economic and social vibrancy.

Groups relying on volunteers would welcome more opportunities

to be part of wider networks so they can feel part of a greater

whole, and possibly gain some synergy with other organisations'

activities. There were discussions on how to better involve

renters and other demographics who may be less likely to

volunteer in the traditional manner.

Community groups expressed a wish to be a part of long term planning for the preservation of built and natural environments, and plan their activities accordingly.

5.8 Community Panel Consultation

In 2013 Council also consulted with its Community Panel. The

Community Panel is a way for community members to share

their views on local issues on a regular basis. Over 200 Panel


members take part in four online surveys each year. Membership

to the Community Panel is free and open to residents,

ratepayers and visitors to West Torrens. Members of the Panel

and their responses remain anonymous. All surveys are held

online so members need access to a computer and Internet.

Public health issues raised by the Community Panel included:

Education and Awareness. Many respondents indicated that empowerment and prevention through education and awareness about health factors is important. However, this was a greater concern for younger demographics.

Access to Services. Respondents aged 65 years and over were more concerned with support from healthcare professionals and accessing public infrastructure.

Public Health Challenges. While a concern for people from all demographic groups, concern about ageing and age related illnesses, such as arthritis and heart disease, was especially common in older people.

Healthy living, weight management, mental health, obesity, smoking, alcoholism, violence and abuse, and harmful advertising and marketing that targets body image and lifestyle (such as energy drinks and alcohol consumption) were also of concern to all respondent groups. However, younger respondents indicate that these are a particular health challenge for them. There was also a general concern about the capacity of the healthcare system to address contemporary health issues through either limited funding or ill-informed medical professionals accustomed to prescription medication treatment rather than preventative medical practice.

Improving Neighbourhood Public Health: A reduction in traffic, improved natural environment and less pollution are factors seen by respondents as key to improving Public Health. Older demographics considered access to healthcare and medical facilities to be an important issue.

Our Public Health Plan has drawn upon the Community Panel's findings to identify and address local public health issues.


6 The Determinants of Health The determinants of health are the conditions into which people are born, grow, live, work and age.

It is now well recognised that the health of individuals and populations is shaped by broad social, economic and environmental factors that lie outside the direct influence of the health sector.

‘Determinants of health’, a term that was introduced in the 1970s by the World Health Organisation (WHO), refers to those factors that have been found to have the most significant influence - positive or negative - on our health. They include the social, cultural, economic and physical environment, as well as individual behaviours and characteristics.

The interacting nature of these determinants is represented in the diagram below.

The determinants of health are also important contributors to broader community wellbeing, and the sustainability and resilience of communities as a whole.

In present government structures, sectors other than Health are responsible for policy decisions that shape the impact that these determinants may have on health and wellbeing.

Major gains in community health, and the reduction of health service costs, can be achieved by influencing the determinants of health.

The Commission on the Social Determinants of Health called on “the WHO and all governments to lead global action on the social determinants of health with the aim of achieving health equity."

They highlighted that “social and economic policies have a determining impact on whether a child can grow and develop to its

full potential and live a flourishing life, or whether its life will be blighted”. 2

Public Health Planning across South Australia is a collaborative effort between state and local government which recognises the need to work in a holistic way to address health inequalities through a focus on the determinants of health, and taking a 'Health in All Policies' approach.

2 The Commission on Social Determinants of Health - Final Report 2008 (WHO)

http://www.who.int/social_determinants/thecommission/en/


7 The State of Health in West Torrens A number of key social, environmental and economic factors that influence the health of people in West Torrens are outlined below, along with an indication of the risks and opportunities that they present. The overall picture is of a culturally diverse council undergoing population renewal, where our existing senior citizens are moving into the 'elderly' category and younger populations are moving into the area.

7.1 Demographics

The City of West Torrens estimated resident population for 2013 is 58,158. At the last Census in 2011 the population of the City of West Torrens was 54,961, living in 25,970 dwellings with an average household size of 2.25.3

Examining the population age profile, West Torrens has higher proportion of seniors aged 70+ compared to Greater Adelaide, as well as a higher proportion of people aged in the independent, tertiary, and young workforce category (18-34). West Torrens has a slightly lower proportion of couples with/without children and single parent families. Correspondingly, West Torrens also has a slightly lower proportion of children aged under 17.

Our population has higher levels of tertiary education than Greater Adelaide with 21.2% people in West Torrens holding a tertiary qualification in 2011. West Torrens has less people attending junior or secondary school than Greater Adelaide, but a higher percentage of university, TAFE and other higher education students.

3 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, compiled and presented

in profile.id

For residents who are employed, there were more professionals in West Torrens in 2011 than any other occupation, followed by Clerical and Administrative Workers. Income levels are consistent with Greater Adelaide, with the only significant difference being less members of the population on a very high income (defined as over $2,000 gross per week).

7.2 Population Growth

From 1991 to 2011 the City of West Torrens's population increased by 3,976 people (7.9%) representing a modest average annual population change of 0.38% per year. However our population growth is accelerating, with the last 5 years of available Census data (2006 to 2011) showing an increase of 3,010 people (5.8%), representing an average annual population change of 1.14% per year over that period.4

This increase is comparable to the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide target for the City of West Torrens of up to an additional 20,000 people over the next 30 years, to be achieved through denser infill development.5 If spread evenly, an increase of 20,000 would constitute a growth rate of approximately 1.2% per year.

Adding an additional 20,000 people grows West Torrens from an estimated resident population of 58,158 in 2013 to approximately 78,000 residents by 2040. This would necessitate an examination of extra infrastructure, increased pressures on services, as well as potential issues and opportunities for community development and inclusivity.

4 ibid

5 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide (2010) page 158-159


7.3 Cultural and linguistic diversity

West Torrens has comparatively higher numbers of people claiming non-English speaking ancestry, and a larger percentage of overseas arrivals live in West Torrens compared to Greater Adelaide. This is reflected in the Census showing that 30% of our residents speak a language other than English at home. Apart from people born in the United Kingdom, immigrants from Greece and Italy were the largest group to have made West Torrens their home in the latter part of the 20th century.

At the start of the 21st century this picture is changing, with those from India and China emerging as the largest group of immigrants to the area.6

This cultural mix is testimony to the multicultural fabric of West Torrens, which is undergoing further diversification. An issue with implications for access to health resources and services is the percentage of those born overseas reporting poor proficiency in English (55%), higher than the metropolitan rate.7

Twice as many clients of Home and Community Care services in the eastern part of CWT are non-English speaking, compared to the rest of the Adelaide metro area (28% compared to 14%)8, which will have significant implications for service design and delivery.

7.4 Vulnerability

While all members of the community can be vulnerable at different times in their lives, those who are (or could be) excluded from

6

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, compiled and presented

in profile.id

7 Selected Indicators of Population Health and its Determinants’, Public Health Unit,

University of SA, 2013 8 ibid

mainstream society, directly or indirectly, are vulnerable to particular health challenges. Social attitudes and institutional barriers can have profound impacts on health to which, for example, people with a disability, their carers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, older people, youth and unemployed are often especially vulnerable. In 2011, 5.7 percent of the West Torrens population reported needing help in their day to day lives with all or any activities - self-care, body movements or communication - because of a disability, long term health condition, or old age. This should not be viewed as the total population with a disability as many people with a disability do not require this level of assistance. Furthermore, the need for assistance increases among the age groups. In 2011 approximately 10 percent of our population were carers providing unpaid assistance to a person with a disability. This could be an important indicator of the demand for disability support. However, obtaining support is often determined by a number of factors including income, age, culture and sense of community cohesiveness. The key issues impacting upon vulnerable groups within the City of West Torrens include; access to services, building community capacity and better use of resources.9

7.5 Ageing

West Torrens also has higher proportion of seniors aged 70+ compared to Greater Adelaide and the trends from 2006-11 show that our seniors will now be moving into the elderly category (85 and over).

9 City of West Torrens Access and Inclusion Strategy (draft)


Over the last decade, premature mortality (death) has declined.10 Fuelled by living longer and low fertility rates, over the next 20 to 30 years population aging is expected to increase in Greater Adelaide, with a greater proportion (almost 1 in 3) people over the age of 65 resulting in an increase in lone person or couples without children households.11

At the same time, morbidity (chronic illness) especially of a non-communicable nature has risen.12 These two facts combine to indicate that although South Australians are living longer, they may be living longer with a chronic illness, disease or impairment, or conversely, those with chronic conditions are capable of living longer due to a variety of circumstances.

Either way, there are broad ramifications to contemplate including changes to people's lifestyles, demands on services and changes to the urban form.

Enabling independence and 'ageing in place' are identified as key priorities in the South Australian Strategic Plan to address this demographic trend.13

7.6 Young People

The early years of children's lives have a significant impact on their later development. Many of the health and wellbeing problems we see in adults – obesity and its associations such as diabetes and heart disease, mental health problems, family violence, poor literacy and unemployment – have their origins in pathways that begin much earlier in life.

10

The State of Public Health in South Australia 2012 (2012) page 67 11

30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide (2010) page 9 12

The State of Public Health in South Australia 2012 (2012) page 67 13

National Heart Foundation of Australia. Healthy By Design SA - A guide to planning,

designing and developing healthy urban environments in South Australia, 2012

The Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) is a population based measure of how children have developed by the time they start school. It looks at five areas of early childhood development: physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, and communication skills and general knowledge.14

Overall there are 20.4 per cent of children developmentally vulnerable on one or more domains of the AEDI in the City of West Torrens and 9.5 per cent are developmentally vulnerable on two or more domains. Children vulnerable for two or more domains are considered to be at particularly high risk developmentally.

14 http://maps.aedi.org.au/lga/sa/48410


7.7 Personal Health and Community Safety

Community safety covers broad areas such as crime, injuries and accidents, poor family relationships and lack of support, drug and alcohol use and related behaviours, poor physical environment, unstable housing and social exclusion. Council provides many services to improve safety such as road and footpath construction, street cleaning, building safety checks, planning controls, and managing stray and dangerous animals.

Indicators of personal and community safety show West Torrens on a par with the metro average, with 43% of people reporting ‘feeling very safe/safe walking alone in their local area after dark’.15

Mental health is another significant community health issue. In Western Adelaide, as in the rest of South Australia, ‘Mental disorders’ are the fourth most prevalent disease category (see Table 1). A slightly greater number of clients of community mental health services live in West Torrens than the metropolitan average.

7.8 Sense of Belonging

A determinant for mental health issues, as well as quality of life and happiness, is a person's sense of belonging. A sense of belonging can often be negatively affected for an individual by social exclusion, social isolation and dislocation.

Belonging is an important contributor to a sense of identity for individuals and communities. How and where we experience a sense of belonging can change, however belonging remains a key contributor to our wellbeing and participation throughout our lives.

15

‘Selected Indicators of Population Health and its Determinants’, Public Health Unit,

University of SA, 2013

Maslow felt it was of such importance that in his hierarchy of needs he placed belongingness just above physiological and safety needs16.

Our sense of belonging can emerge from the connections we make with people, places, culture and groups. It can be defined as ‘the experience of personal involvement in a system or environment so that persons feel themselves to be an integral part of that system or environment’.17

In other words, belonging is about people feeling needed, valued, or important to other people, groups, organisations, environments or spiritual dimensions. A sense of identity and belonging within West Torrens is often compounded by the transitory nature of the population, since 2006 28.5%of the population include residents new to West Torrens.18

7.9 Urban Form and Design

Our lifelong health and wellbeing and chronic disease rates are all affected by the design of the built environment.19 The design of neighbourhoods can have a significant impact on whether residents feel connected in their community.

The City of West Torrens continues to experience infill development often in the shape of smaller block sizes and hammerhead development.

This sort of development is often ineffective in addressing the street and contributing to an aesthetic and active street life and ensuring

16

Maslow, A, (1943) 'A Theory of Human Motivation', Psychological Review. 17

Hagerty, Lynch-Sauer, Patusky, Bouwsema and Collier (1992, p. 172) 18

Australian Bureau of Statistics 2011 Census 19

National Heart Foundation of Australia. Healthy By Design SA - A guide to planning,

designing and developing healthy urban environments in South Australia, 2012.


mature trees are within the urban landscape. These elements may tend to promote social isolation by inhibiting social interaction and increasing interface issues between neighbours.

When considered from a health determinant perspective, the role of the urban environment in health becomes increasingly apparent and in many cases local government has the primary role in planning and maintaining the urban environment. The built form and design of the urban environment can influence:

exposure to environmental pollutants (e.g. by decreasing car use, thus decreasing air or noise pollution)

health-related behaviours (e.g. by being walkable, thus increasing ease and amount of physical activity)

access to services and amenities (e.g. by considered zoning for retail and services to provide convenient access)

psychosocial factors that increase social support, esteem and mutual respect (e.g. by providing community spaces that encourage interaction for happy and healthy communities).

The following diagram illustrates how residential environments can contribute to health, in this case mitigating the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is one of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases in Western Adelaide (see Table 1).

Figure 7 - Diez Roux A. Residential environments and cardiovascular health. J Urban Health:NY Acad Med 2003; 80(4)

7.10 Urban change

Population growth, aging and urban development will increase demands on existing physical and social infrastructure. New forms of housing have smaller areas of private space, while mixing land uses could better activate streets in certain locations, and encourage more pedestrian activity and street life.

Analysis of the household/family types in 2011 showed there were a

higher proportion of lone person households compared to Greater

Adelaide, with two persons the common household type. This is

also matched by a higher proportion of one and two bedroom


dwellings compared to Greater Adelaide, although three bedrooms

is still the most common type of dwelling.

However, looking at the growth in household types between 2006

and 2011, growth is coming from couples with/without children and

group households, and a decrease in lone person households.

Some of the couples without children are pre-retirees, but most are

younger, with numbers of children beginning to grow.20

The changing pattern of urban development and increased densities will require a cultural evolution towards sharing our lives actively in public locations and with more people. This evolution will impact upon approaches to social inclusion and community wellbeing.

7.11 Employment, education and socio-economic status

Employment, education and socio-economic status all have an impact on health. In comparison with the rest of metropolitan Adelaide, West Torrens is around the average, or somewhat above average, on the majority of a range of indicators for unemployment and education, while the west of the city fares slightly better than its east.

Our city is home to high numbers of school leavers admitted to university, 6% more than Greater Adelaide and 11% more than the State as a whole.

West Torrens also rates about the same, or slightly better than the metropolitan average, on a range of indicators for income and wealth, although there are some significant differences between the east and west of the city. 17% more Age Pension recipients and

20

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, compiled and

presented in profile.id

1.3% more Disability Support Pension recipients live in the eastern part of the city.21

7.12 Non-communicable disease

Figure 8 compares the top ten disease categories for western Adelaide with South Australia, which contribute to premature mortality and morbidity.

1999-2001 % 2006-2009 %

Disease West Adelaide

South Australia

West Adelaide

South Australia

Cardiovascular 21.0 19.6 18.1 17.5

Malignant neoplasms (cancer)

19.4 18.6 19.5 19.0

Nervous system and sense organ disorders

12.5 12.2 14.5 14.3

Mental disorders 11.3 11.8 11.2 11.7

Chronic respiratory 7.6 7.6 7.9 7.7

Diabetes mellitus 5.7 5.5 6.1 6.1

Musculoskeletal 3.6 3.7 3.8 4.0

Digestive Systems 3.4 3.1 2.8 2.9

Unintentional injuries 2.9 4.3 2.9 4.1

Genitourinary 2.8 2.6 2.9 2.6

Total 90.2 89.1 89.7 89.7

Source: The State of Public Health in South Australia 2012 (2012) page 68 and 72

Figure 8 - Comparison of the Top 10 Disease Rates, by Category, in Western Adelaide

Figure 8 indicates that the ten most common disease categories are consistent for both Western Adelaide and South Australia, with

21

‘Selected Indicators of Population Health and its Determinants’, Public Health Unit, University of SA, 2013


unintentional injuries being less prevalent in West Adelaide appearing to be the only significant variation.

While most disease categories have remained relatively static, nervous system and sense organ disorders and Diabetes mellitus have seen the largest increases.

Cardiovascular disease and malignant neoplasms (cancer) collectively remain the two largest categories, with cancer now overtaking cardiovascular disease as the number one ranked category.

7.13 Physical Activity

For people aged over 18 years, approximately 40% in Western Adelaide report the recommended levels of physical activity; while almost as many lead a sedentary lifestyle, which becomes more prevalent with age and among females.22 A sedentary lifestyle has been shown to increase the likelihood of premature death or morbidity by inhibiting healthy bodily functions controlled by muscle movement.23

Facilitating opportunities for recreation, social interaction and cultural activities, which together underpin active lifestyles and improved physical and mental health and wellbeing, are therefore important public health approaches.

Urban environments have the potential to aid in delivering health and wellbeing by serving as venues for formal cultural events and community celebrations, as well as informal activities, provided their design and location does not favour vehicles over people.

22

The State of Public Health in South Australia 2012 (2012) page 146 and 147 23 www.abc.net.au/catalyst/vodcast/default.htm

According to the National Heart Foundation of Australia24 walking and cycling for recreation and transport are important in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases and have a wide range of benefits for physical and mental health, as well as social and community health. Walking is the most fundamental form of mobility. It is inexpensive, emission-free, offers important heart health benefits, and is equally accessible for all regardless of income.

7.14 Healthy Lifestyles

Nutritious food, regular physical activity and maintenance of a healthy weight are vital for healthy growth and development in childhood and good health throughout life. They provide a foundation for coping with the stressors of daily life, improve

24

National Heart Foundation of Australia. 2013. Why Walking? The Heart Foundation Case

for Investment in Walking. Adelaide


people’s general sense of wellbeing and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.25 For many people in Australia, food consumption is contributing to high levels of chronic disease such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.26. Risk factors that contribute to chronic disease, such as obesity, high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, are increased by high intakes of total kilojoules, saturated fat and salt, and low fruit and vegetable intake. Current data from SA Health suggests that South Australians are not meeting the recommended averages for fruit and vegetable consumption.27 Easy access to healthy food choices where people live, work and play is important to help maintain health and prevent chronic disease. Food insecurity – lack of regular access to safe, nutritionally adequate, culturally acceptable food from nonemergency sources - appears to be increasing.28 Similarly, substance use, misuse and abuse including smoking and alcohol contribute to a range of personal and social ailments. Successfully challenging these behavioural issues remains a significant issue for public health reform.

25 Department of Health South Australia. 2011. Eat Well Be Active Strategy for South

Australia 2011–2016.Public Health and Clinical Systems Division. Adelaide 26 Donovan J, Larsen K and McWhinnie J. Food-sensitive planning and urban design: A

conceptual framework for achieving a sustainable and healthy food system. Melbourne: Report commissioned by the National Heart Foundation of Australia (Victorian Division), 2011. 27

Department of Health South Australia. 2011. Eat Well Be Active Strategy for South

Australia 2011–2016.Public Health and Clinical Systems Division. Adelaide 28 Donovan J, Larsen K and McWhinnie J. Food-sensitive planning and urban design: A

conceptual framework for achieving a sustainable and healthy food system. Melbourne: Report commissioned by the National Heart Foundation of Australia (Victorian Division), 2011.

7.15 Climate change

The potential impacts of climate change on the City of West Torrens include;

Sea level rises, with potential loss of coastal reserves and inundation of low lying areas,

Reduced rainfall, resulting in reduced amenity, maintenance and loss of flora and fauna,

Longer and hotter summers, with increased heat island effect with higher density urban form,

Increased peak rainfall events, resulting in stormwater inundation from greater urban runoff.

Actively responding to the challenges of climate change and how humans interact with their environment, in particularly being more connected to their environment, is intrinsic to wellbeing.

7.16 Pollution

The City of West Torrens is located within the inner Adelaide Metropolitan area and is accustomed to high levels of vehicle movements, air traffic, and industrial activity. The city also has significant areas of industrial and residential interface which can lead to issues with air and water quality and noise pollution. Poor outdoor and indoor air quality has a range of potential health impacts29. Air pollution can have a negative effect on the respiratory and cardiovascular system. Unwanted noise can also evoke a stress response which can influence the cardiovascular system and the body’s metabolism.

29 Government of South Australia. 2011. Transit-oriented developments... through a health

lens. A Guide for Healthy Urban Developments. Adelaide


Long-term health effects from noise have been associated with people living adjacent to busy roads, railways, airports or industry, where they are regularly exposed to high noise levels that interrupt sleep and prevent relaxation.30 While local government does not have statutory powers in relation to the regulation of noise, water or air pollution, the avoidance of potential health impacts are important considerations in development planning.

30

ibid


8 Public Health Priorities The following diagram indicates the key health issues identified in the preceding analysis of social, cultural, environmental and economic risks and opportunities, and how these relate to the themes of the City of West Torrens Community Plan. The diagram also shows the public health priorities which have been identified in response to these issues, and how these priorities relate to the four key objectives of the State Public Health Plan (South Australia: A Better Place to Live).

Public Health Priorities

A community that values cultural diversity

Support for vulnerable groups

Healthy ageing

Learning, education and training pathways

Community safety

A sense of identity

A connected community

Urban design for liveable, walkable, inclusive and accessible neighbourhoods

Thriving local economy

Healthy spaces, places and activities

Promotion of healthy eating

Stormwater management and flood planning

Urban design for a warming climate

Social and community resilience

Mitigation of carbon emissions

Basic public health protection

Preventing spread of infectious diseases

Effective waste disposal

Protecting water quality

Minimising noise and air pollution

Key Health Issues

Cultural and linguistic diversity

Vulnerability

Ageing

Young people

Personal and community safety

Sense of belonging

Non-communicable disease

Physical activity

Healthy lifestyles

Urban change

Urban form and design

Climate change

Pollution

Population growth

Socioeconomic status

Public Health Objectives

Community Plan Themes

Community Life

Built Environment

Natural Environment

City Prosperity

Objective 1

Stronger and healthier communities and

neighbourhoods for all generations

Objective 2

Increasing opportunities for healthy living, healthy

eating and being active

Objective 3

Preparing for climate

change

Objective 4

Sustaining and improving public and environmental

health protection


9 Audit of Council Activities that Support Public Health An audit of Council’s current policies, plans, programs and services, indicates that a broad range of activities are already undertaken that support public health in the City of West Torrens.

1. Stronger and healthier communities and neighbourhoods for all generations Council's current programs and services which address community wellbeing, community safety, social inclusion, social infrastructure and improved liveability include:

Infrastructure provision (footpaths, parks, shade, street trees)

Community centres and facilities

Home and Community Care program

an Aged Care Facility

Arts and cultural programs

Festivals and events

Community development programs

Economic development

Library services (multicultural, youth, aged, lifelong learning)

Volunteer program

Community grants

Public Safety (car parking controls, road safety)

Planning and Development approval

Building inspections

Traffic management and road safety

Animal Management (registration of dogs, cat identification, keeping chickens).

Plans and policies include:

Asset Management Plans

Community Land Management Plans

Open Space and Public Place Plan

Transport Strategy

Housing Diversity Development Plan Amendment

Asset Management Policy

Public Consultation Policy

Building Inspection Policy

Graffiti Management Policy

Libraries Policy

Advertising on Council Land and Related Public Infrastructure Policy. .


2. Increasing opportunities for healthy living, healthy eating and being active Council's current programs and services which address healthy living, healthy eating and promotion of physical activity and obesity prevention include:

Open space provision - ovals, parks and reserves

Cycling lanes and off-road paths

Footpath provision and maintenance

Playgrounds

River Torrens Linear Park

Sport and recreation grounds

Western Region Sporting Facilities Study

OPAL program

Community buses

Community grants

Community events

Community engagement

Home and community care services

Information provision and learning programs. Plans and policies include:

Open Space and Public Place Plan

Strategic Bicycle Plan

Liquor Licensing Policy

3. Preparing for climate change Council's current programs and services which address the challenges of our changing climate through promoting climate change adaptation, supporting community resilience, managing emissions and protection of waterways include:

Environmental protection programs

Structure planning and urban design


Water Sensitive Urban Design

Stormwater treatment devices and rain gardens, trash racks

Recycling and green organics

Waste education and minimisation programs

Community education programs

Parks and reserves

Revegetation activities, community events and native plant giveaway program

Emergency Management. Plans and policies include:

Climate Change Action Plan

Water Management Action Plan

Flood Management Master Plan

Western Adelaide Region Climate Change Adaptation Plan

Brown Hill and Keswick Creek Stormwater Project Management Plan

Natural Environment Policy

Urban Tree Management Policy

Urban Verge Management Policy.

http://www.westtorrens.sa.gov.au/files/c079cbaf-48b0-4af3-b944-a114002003d9/Climate_Change_Action_Plan_PDF_Version_Feb2012.pdf

http://www.westtorrens.sa.gov.au/files/839bdd02-f154-417b-b77e-a1350118b6bf/1-BHKCSP_-_Draft_SMP_10_Aug_2012_no_appendicies.pdf

http://www.westtorrens.sa.gov.au/files/839bdd02-f154-417b-b77e-a1350118b6bf/1-BHKCSP_-_Draft_SMP_10_Aug_2012_no_appendicies.pdf


4. Sustaining and improving public and environmental health protection Council's current programs and services which address communicable disease prevention, safe food, safe water, appropriate accommodation, noise and other environmental factors include:

Environmental protection programs

Emergency Management

Waste management including onsite effluent, stormwater, hazardous substances

Immunisation

Food safety inspections

Control of pest animals and plants

Control of public nuisances

Building inspections


Separation of land uses and contaminated land

Monitoring of insanitary conditions

Emergency and disaster planning

Street lighting

Stormwater drainage

Dog and cat management

Plans and policies include:

Waste Minimisation and Recycling Services Policy

Parking Permits Policy

Food Act Inspections Policy Animal Management Plan

Animal Nuisance Complaints Policy


10 Strategy The following pages describes strategies which are currently being undertaken by Council to address the public health risks discussed in the previous section, as well as identifying opportunities to promote community health in the City of West Torrens. These strategies are based around an audit of Council's existing activities.

They are drawn from a number of Council's strategic management plans, including Council's Towards 2025 Community Plan, Asset Management Plans (Buildings, Footpaths, Roads and Stormwater), Strategic Bicycle Plan, Climate Change Action Plan, Community Land Management Plans, Open Space and Public Place Plan, Service Plans, Transport Strategy, Vision 2025 Strategic Directions Report, Water Management Action Plan and the Animal Management Plan.

It is intended that future revisions of this Plan will extend its scope to include activities undertaken by others who may work alone, or in partnership with Council, to improve the community's health.

A priority activity over the first year of implementation of this Plan will be to identify public health service providers in West Torrens, map their activities against the key priorities of our Plan and identify potential health partners to assist address them.

Objectives

The four key objectives for our Pan are drawn from the State Public Health Plan South Australia: A Better Place to Live.

These four objectives are not separate streams of planning, but interconnected, relating to and reinforcing each other, similarly, many of our strategies which are presented on the following pages support more than one of the objectives.

Many of the strategies therefore deliver against more than one of the key health priorities which were identified in section 8 of this Plan. We see this as a good thing, demonstrating the value of the strategy in delivering multiple outcomes.

Objective 1



Objective 2

Increasing opportunities for healthy living, healthy eating and being active

Objective 3

Preparing for climate change

Objective 4


health protection


10.1 Council’s roles

While Council provides many services, it does not all of the services and facilities needed to address the area’s public health priorities, and it may have a role in supporting and influencing other service providers, providing advice or advocating on behalf of its community.

In our Community Plan, Council’s roles are described as one or more of the following:

Facilitator Help groups of people or organisations understand their common objectives and assist them to plan to achieve them.

Leader Guide the community by example in direction, course or action.

Advocate Appeal for, or on behalf of, the community to service providers and other levels of government.

Partner Work in cooperation, and share responsibility, with other people or groups to achieve a common goal.

Service Provider Be directly responsible for funding and providing service.31

31 From Towards 2025 the City of West Torrens Community Plan

In the context of Council’s Pubic Health Plan, our Partners could be:

Planning Partner Work with a partner to conduct investigations, research, plan and/or develop services

Service Partner Work with a partner to provide services to the community or targeted groups

Public Health Partner Work with a partner to identify and address a public health issue(s) affecting West Torrens residents.

A first step in implementation of this Plan will be to identify our planning, service and public health partners, and agree how we can best work collaboratively together in the future.


10.2 Progress

On the following pages, our current progress in implementing each strategy (within our Community Plan) that relates to our Public Health Priorities is indicated in the column titled 'Status'. Progress Legend

Currently being implemented, and to be continued.

Proposed new strategy, to be implemented over the

next 1-5 years.

Proposed new strategy – longer term implementation.


Rationale

This objective focusses on the social and physical infrastructure of our city and how it can best support the development and maintenance of health, wellbeing and a connected community.

The State Health Plan encourages local government to consider the CHESS principles for healthy environments: Connected Environments, Healthy Eating Environments, Safe Environments and Sustainable Environments, together with related concepts and

factors, in their planning to develop stronger and healthier communities.

Councils are also encouraged to plan for the priority Stronger and Healthier Communities and Neighbourhoods for All Generations in ways that include specific recognition of the needs of different ages and abilities that together build community connectedness.

Objective 1




Objective 1: Stronger and healthier communities and neighbourhoods for all generations

KEY PUBLIC HEALTH PRIORITY

STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS



Community safety

Implement and review Council's Roads Infrastructure Assets Management Plan and 10 year capital works program to ensure that the Council manages its road (surface, pavement and kerb & gutter) assets in a manner most appropriate for the community.

Service provider, Partner, Advocate

City Assets City Works



Community safety

Implement the City of West Torrens Transport Strategy Transportation for the Next Generation 2025 to provide for community safety, minimise negative traffic impacts and support health promoting transport options.





Community safety



Implement and review Council's Footpath Infrastructure Assets Management Plan to support walking, community connection, accessibility and minimise risks of injury.

Service Provider, Partner, Advocate




Community safety



Implement and review Council's Strategic Bicycle Plan to enhance bicycle networks for both local and regional trips and encourage cycling by providing a variety of options for cyclists with different needs and abilities.





Manage building assets to address the needs of residents through Council's Buildings Infrastructure Assets Management Plan based on the principles of maximising community benefit, equity and accessibility.

Service provider


Legend

Strategies are coloured as per Community Plan themes: Community Life Natural Environment Built Environment City Prosperity Financial Sustainability Organisational Strength pp

Health Priorities are coloured as per Health Objectives: Objective 1 Objective 2 Objective 3 Objective 4 Fi

nancial



STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS




Work towards implementation of the Thebarton Technology Hub Master Plan to develop a Shared Identity, Links and Connections and Green Streets and Places in the Thebarton Bioscience Precinct.

Partner, Service provider

City Assets, City Works, Community Services



Community safety

Promote development to support public health through Development Plan policy regarding Access, Crime Prevention, Community Facilities, Hazards, Orderly and Sustainable Development, Open Space and Recreation, Interface and Residential Development.

Service provider

City Development


Community safety


Develop responses and amend the Development Plan to address issues for residents and businesses at the residential industry interface.

Service provider, Facilitator, Leader

City Strategy


Community safety

Apply the Building Code of Australia to ensure suitable amenities are provided in buildings based on the associated land use.

Service provider

City Development


Community safety


Provide feedback to Adelaide Airport regarding the application and review of its Master Plan, including consideration of public health impacts.

Advocate City Strategy



Ensure that planning, design and maintenance reinforce the open space hierarchy and there is an equitable spread of regional, district, neighbourhood and local open space.


City Assets City Works City Strategy




In planning, designing and maintaining open space, identify, monitor and provide for the health, cultural, sport and recreation needs of a growing community and urban population.



Legend



nancial



STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS




Increase the provision of open space associated with growth corridors in order to address the potential demand for cultural, recreation and sports facilities.






Develop the Western Region Sporting Facilities Study to understand and provide for future sporting needs of the West Torrens and broader community.

Partner City Strategy


Sense of identity

Incorporate public place making into structure planning for growth corridors.

Facilitator, Advocate

City Strategy





Develop, maintain and facilitate the use of community hubs and facilities as points of social, recreational and educational interaction.

Service Provider, Facilitator

City Strategy, Community Services



A sense of identity

Provide youth programs and investigate social enterprise initiatives and implement where feasible.

Facilitator, Service Provider

Community Services


A sense of identity


Sense of identity

Encourage the community to connect through community-based festivals, arts projects, local events and programs, and through activities that celebrate indigenous and multicultural heritage.


Community Services




Provide an evolving range of resources and informal learning opportunities in appropriate community languages in response to the changing needs of the community.

Service Provider

Community Services

Legend



nancial



STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS



Ensure Transport Services plays an active role in supporting community development initiatives.

Service Provider

Community Services

Healthy ageing



Community safety

Provide care transport and personal care services to support vulnerable people to remain living at home through the Home and Community Care Program.

Service Provider

Community Services

Healthy ageing



Work within Council and with community groups to generate volunteer opportunities.

Facilitator Community Services

Healthy ageing


Provide quality accredited residential aged care services for residents of St Martins.

Service Provider

St Martins


Community safety

Ensure that the principles of public health and wellbeing are included in the City of West Torrens Disability Action Plan.


Community Services



Sense of identity

Protect and enhance the unique and special qualities that reinforce the character and heritage of local places including, recognising cultural diversity and creating greater public awareness of heritage sites, events and people of local significance.


Community Services, City Strategy, City Development


Sense of identity


Acknowledge and celebrate the Kaurna heritage in the landscape.


Community Services, City Strategy, City Works

Sense of identity


Healthy ageing

Comply with the spirit and principles of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, to apply access and mobility standards that ensure equality of access.


Community Services, City Works

Legend



nancial


Rationale

The SA Public Health Plan encourages councils to include considerations for boosting opportunities for physical activity and access to healthy food in their public health planning.

SA Health will continue to develop and recommend policy and regulatory responses designed to increase consumer information and choice and to make healthier choices the easier choices.

SA Health, through the Eat Well Be Active Strategy 2011-16, will continue to support policy changes, and information and social marketing campaigns, as well as supporting local communities to eat well and be active.

SA Health will work with partners across State Government, Local Councils, local communities, relevant Public Health Partner Authorities and other agencies of State Government to address

ways to reduce the harm done by excessive alcohol and tobacco use.

The Public Health Plan suggests that, where relevant, Councils consider coordinating the development of local alcohol management strategies to address community safety and related implications of excessive alcohol use, as part of their public health planning process.

Councils are encouraged to incorporate the use of new tobacco control powers relating to outdoor areas and events in public health planning for their communities.

Objective 2

Increasing opportunities for healthy living, healthy eating and being active


Objective 2: Increasing opportunities for healthy living, healthy eating and being active


STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS




Complete the Western Region Sporting Facilities Study to understand and provide for future sporting needs of the West Torrens and broader community.

Partner, Facilitator

City Strategy



Healthy ageing


Provide community meal programs to HACC eligible clients.

Service Provider Community Services



Continue Council's food safe programs.


Regulatory Services



Encourage community engagement with open space in the City of West Torrens through promotion and marketing.

Facilitator Communications




Work with gardening groups to ensure that Community Gardens throughout the City are at capacity and well maintained.

Facilitator Community Services




Promote community interaction, healthy eating, alternative forms of recreation and food security, through productive street tree plantings and urban food production within reserves and streetscapes.


Community Services, City Works



In Regional and District open spaces maintain and enhance their attraction as play destinations through the provision of equipment, natural playgrounds, public art and landscaping to create a range of play opportunities.

Service Provider City Works

Legend



nancial



STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS



Establish a dog park that meets the developing need for off-leash dog destinations.

Service Provider City Assets, City Works



Preserve and enhance the quality and biodiversity of natural landscapes and waterways, in balance with retaining recreational and cultural activities which add to the social fabric of West Torrens, and limiting activities which denigrate and pollute.

Leader City Assets

Legend



nancial


Rationale

The State Public Health Plan encourages councils to review their planning for climate change preparedness, ensure that the public health implications are recognised and that appropriate strategies are designed and implemented to ensure community resilience. When planning for healthier communities and neighbourhoods for all generations, Councils are also encouraged to ensure that the public health implications of climate change are addressed.

Councils may need to consider the resilience of their basic public health infrastructure to climate change and extreme events such as sea level rise and storm surges i.e. consider the protection, adaptation or, in certain circumstances, relocation of basic infrastructure to ensure their continued functioning.

Objective 3

Preparing for climate change


Objective 3: Preparing for Climate Change


STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS



Community safety


Develop and implement flood and catchment management plans that provide resilience to flood and potential sea level rises.

Service Provider, Partner, Advocate.

City Assets






Install Water Sensitive Urban Design devices and rain gardens in street environments, engage and educate residents and monitor water quality impacts.

Service Provider, Partner.

City Assets



Community safety


Apply the Building Code of Australia requirements to maintain a standard for building design which achieves positive climate outcomes.

Service Provider.

City Development



Community safety

Provide habitat, shade and reduce heat island effect through planting and maintenance of appropriate trees in streets and public places.

Service Provider, Partner.

City Assets, City Works




Review and implement Council's Climate Change Action Plan to meet carbon emissions targets for Council activities.

Service Provider,

City Strategy




Contribute to the development and implementation of the Western Adelaide Region Climate Change Adaptation Plan.

Partner City Strategy

Legend



nancial


Rationale

The State Health Plan acknowledges that SA Health will work in conjunction with local councils (through the LGA) and Environmental Health Australia to ensure that the powers and provisions of the Act are understood and consistently applied. Councils will be assisted to explore and assess regional models of service delivery and other shared service options where appropriate, develop and refine public health policies and

regulations to ensure that they are streamlined, and take account of contemporary issues or changes in technology. SA Health will work in conjunction with Councils (through the LGA) and Environmental Health Australia to develop and refine public and environmental health performance standards to support best practice across the state.

Councils are encouraged to ensure that the role of public health is identified in emergency and disaster management planning.

Objective 4


health protection


Objective 4: Sustaining and improving public and environmental health protection


STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS



Community safety

Continue to undertake routine inspections of food businesses, educate food handlers and investigate complaints relating to food safety.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services




Community safety

Ensure public swimming pools, spa pools and water slides are routinely inspected.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services


Community safety

Continue to provide public education about asbestos and investigate complaints.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services




Community safety

Educate the community and conduct inspections to control Legionella in high risk manufactured water systems (cooling water systems and warm water systems).

Service Provider

Regulatory Services



Community safety

Conduct inspections, provide advice and educate the community about the health impacts and control of pests including mosquitoes, wasps, bees, rats and snakes.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services




Maintain Council's immunisation programs and provide immunisation clinics for new arrivals.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services




Community safety


Cultivate the community benefits of pet ownership, and create a ‘pet friendly’ environment to support happy and healthy pets, pet owners and community through implementation of Council's Animal Management Plan.

Service Provider, Facilitator, Advocate

Regulatory Services

Legend



nancial



STRATEGY

COUNCIL’S ROLE(S)

INTERNAL DELIVERY

STATUS



Undertake and actively promote Council's public health programs, such as the Healthy Hands Program.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services, Communications




Continue to provide and improve waste management services provided to the community.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services



Undertake educational awareness of Illegal Dumping Strategy and household waste education programs.

Service Provider

Regulatory Services, Communications



Community safety

Monitor storm water quality, and continue with development of flooding and catchment management studies.

Service Provider

City Assets


Community safety

Continue to undertake building inspections.

Service Provider

City Development


Community safety

Continue to implement the functions of Council's Building Fire Safety Committee.

Service Provider

City Development

Legend



nancial


11 Next steps This Public Health Plan represents the first step in developing a framework to assist health providers and partners address our community's aspirations for a healthy and inclusive city. The focus of this iteration of the Plan has been on identifying the key health challenges and opportunities for the City of West Torrens, and understanding and articulating the activities that Council is already undertaking or plans to undertake which make a contribution to improving public health in our region. Following consultation on the draft and endorsement of this Plan, there are a number of steps which Council will undertake to progress it over the coming 5 years. These are:

Monitoring and reporting on the strategies contained in Section 10.

Identifying and agreeing a set of indicators to measure Council's performance in contributing to community wellbeing. While it would be preferable to identify a common set for local government in South Australia, if this is not possible, then just for the City of West Torrens. For example, these may include:

o Hectares open space per 1,000 residents o Upgraded/new parks, gardens, play equipment o Bike paths by kilometre o Footpaths maintained/developed by kilometre

Working with SA Health to refine the 'health determinant' datasets to include data which is more localised, up to date and relevant to local government and less disease (mortality and morbidity) focused.

Undertaking mapping of health service providers in the City of West Torrens, including understanding their roles and functions.

Identifying which of these services address the key public health priorities identified in this Plan, and what (if any) role Council might play going forward.

Identifying which of these services fill gaps (or could) that we have identified in our area, and what role (if any) Council might play to have those gaps addressed.

Draft for Public Consultation - City of West Torrens · 2014-07-08 · Public Health Plan - Draft...

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Transcript of Draft for Public Consultation - City of West Torrens · 2014-07-08 · Public Health Plan - Draft...