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All documents on this Website are available in PDF format .
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A Background Paper on
Confidentiality and Privacy in Public Health Legislation With a
Focus on Infectious Notifiable Diseases (May 2002) [PDF,
456kb]
This document has been prepared by private consultants commissioned
on behalf of the Legislation Reform Working Group of the National
Public Health Partnership. Its purpose is to provide public health
policy makers and practitioners with background information and
context regarding privacy and confidentiality legislation in public
health, with specific relevance to notifiable diseases. Commentary
in the paper does not necessarily reflect the views or policies
of the NPHP or its members. However, the document contains extensive
reference material and discussion that may assist the examination
of privacy and confidentiality issues in the context of public health
legislation and its administration, particularly in relation to
disease notification requirements within and between Australian
jurisdictions.
A national
food and nutrition monitoring and surveillance system: a framework
and a business case [PDF, 519KB]
This report was commissioned by the Australian Government Department
of Health and Ageing on behalf of the National Public Health Partnership.
Four key elements of the framework are concerned with food supply,
food purchasing and acquisition, food and physical activity behaviours,
and nutritional status. Several options are costed for conducting
a comrehensive dietary survey program. This work arose from a recommendation
of the Strategic Inter-Governmental Nutrition Alliance, a former
advisory body to the Partnership
A Summary of Public Health
Laws of Relevance to Remote and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Communities (March 2002) [PDF, 231kb]
This report describes legislation in Australia which relates to
water, waste and hazards in the built environment- public health
issues of fundamental relevance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander communities in remote areas. The report indicates application
and enforcement issues in relation to remote communities in each
jurisdiction and identifies some positive local initiatives taken
in each State or Territory.
A Planning Framework for Public
Health Practice (New edition, September 2000) [PDF,
247kb]
The framework is a tool to improve planning and management in public
health. It complements existing planning processes in public health
and draws them together under a common, over-arching approach.
A Proposed Schema for
Evaluating Evidence on Public Health Interventions – Discussion
Paper (May 2000) [PDF, 738kb]
This discussion paper reports on the first stage of a project
commissioned by the NPHP Group to develop a schema for evaluating
research-based evidence on public health interventions, and for
helping to assess its applicability in decision-making.
A range
of protocols and guidelines relating to Severe Acute Respiratory
Syndrome (March – June 2003)
CDNA guidelines and protocols include: “Interim Australian
Infection Control Guidelines for SARS”; “SARS Updated
Information for General Practitioners”; “Entering Work,
School, Conferences or Other Facilities (Workplaces) After Arriving
from a SARS Affected Area”; “International Airport Procedures
for Public Health Nurse Referrals”; and “Recommendations
for Tracing and Managing Contacts of SARS Cases”.
A Schema for Evaluating Evidence
on Public Health Interventions (Version 4 – June 2002) [PDF,
196kb] [final version]
The aim of this schema is to assist researchers, practitioners,
and policy makers to critically appraise published research about
public health interventions. The schema is designed as a checklist
of questions that a reviewer may wish to consider when assessing
the quality of published research, and when assessing the applicability
of that research to a policy or practice setting. The schema is
intended to assist the systematic appraisal of the strengths, limitations
and gaps in published research as evidence.
A Proposed Schema for Evaluating Evidence on Public Health Interventions:
Case Study One: Evaluating evidence
for interventions that aim to increase the consumption of fruit
and vegetables [PDF, 53kb]
The purpose of Case Study One was to trial the first draft of the
National Public Health Partnership's proposed schema for evaluating
evidence on public health interventions.
Aboriginal Nutrition WA: 1997–2002 is a 5-year coordinated
action plan to improve the nutritional health of Aboriginal people
in WA. The plan has involved wide consultation and has been developed
by the Office of Aboriginal Health and Health Promotions Services,
HDWA.
Contact: Beth Woods (08) 9222 2098
An Intervention Portfolio to Promote
Fruit and Vegetable Consumption – Part 1 – The Process
and Portfolio (2000) [PDF, 712kb]
This report, in two parts, summarises the result of and process
used in a pilot case study that applied a portfolio approach to
define interventions to promote fruit and vegetable consumption.
Part 1 retraces the steps and thinking which led to the final intervention
portfolio.
An Intervention Portfolio to Promote
Fruit and Vegetable Consumption – Part 2 – Review of Interventions
(2000) [PDF, 642kb]
This report, in two parts, summarises the result
of and process used in a pilot case study that applied a portfolio
approach to define interventions to promote fruit and vegetable
consumption. Part 2 details the interventions that were reviewed
in the portfolio exercise.
An
Overview of Public Health Surveillance of Genetic Disorders, and
Mapping of Current Genetic Screening Services in Australia
[PDF,
886kb]
This report was prepared
by the Public Health Genetics Working Group (PHGWG) of the NPHP
and provides a summary of the national environment for public health
genetics including current public health genetics programs and services;
monitoring and surveillance systems for genetic disorders; education,
information and counselling services; and research and development.
It also consolidates overarching information relating to issues
such as consent, privacy, and ethics and provides a brief overview
of emerging issues.
At its October 2002 meeting, the NPHPG approved
the PHGWG report, An Overview of Public Health Surveillance
of Genetic Disorders, and Mapping of Current Genetic Screening
Services in Australia for posting on the NPHP website and
referral to the AHMAC Advisory Group on Human Gene Patents and
Genetic Testing, announced in May 2002, which is to consider issues
around access; quality and safety; social, ethical and legal aspects
of testing and service delivery issues. This report completes
the work of the PHGWG which was disbanded in the context of the
establishment of the AHMAC Advisory Group.
Information on the work of the AHMAC Advisory Group on Human Gene
Patents and Genetic Testing can be obtained by contacting the
Secretary to this group:
Ms Anne Deegan
Acting
Director, Human Genetics Section
Australian Government, Department of Health and Ageing
Tel: (02) 6289 8604
Email: anne.deegan@health.gov.au
Australian
Action Plan for Pandemic Influenza (October 2003) [PDF,
354kb]
The aim of this Action Plan is to facilitate
an organised and effective national response in the event of an
influenza pandemic. It provides specific advice and actions, and
is designed to assist State and Territory health departments and
other organisations in preparing their own contingency arrangements.
Australian
Bat Lyssavirus Guidelines for Medical Practitioners, Veterinarians
and Members of the Public (August 2001)
Although human infections are fortunately
still rare, the existence of lyssavirus in Australian bat populations
and the fatality rate of human infections mean that the disease
poses a potential threat to the Australian population. CDNA released
three information brochures (addressed to medical practitioners,
veterinarians and the general public) on the prevention and management
of lyssavirus infection.
Australian Public Health
Leadership Program – Workshop Summary (25 February 2000)
[PDF, 233kb]
Outcomes of workshop auspiced by NPHP on leadership development.
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Background
Paper to The Review of the Australian Blood Banking and Plasma Products
Sector (September 1999) [PDF, 262kb]
In September 1999, the NPHP Group submitted a background
paper to The Review of the Australian Blood and Blood Products
Sector. This paper provides a general public health perspective
on the issues being investigated by the Review.
Be
Active Australia: A Framework for Health Sector Action for Phyisical
Activity 2005-2010 [PDF file, 247kb]
Blueprint for nation-wide surveillance of chronic diseases and associated determinants (2005) [PDF, 276kb]
The Blueprint for nation-wide surveillance of chronic diseases and associated determinants has been endorsed by Australian Health Ministers to provide direction in the establishment of a surveillance system to improve the quality, access and availability of information for chronic disease prevention. The Blueprint proposes a collaborative and coordinated nation-wide information system that will improve consistency, reduce duplication of effort and enhance efficient use of existing data. The essential elements of a nation-wide surveillance system are identified, and an Australian Priority Setting Tool is described for agreeing information priorities and methods. The Blueprint supports implementation of the National Chronic Disease Strategy and the accompanying Service Improvement Frameworks for key national health priority areas. The Strategy and accompanying documents are accessible at http://www.health.gov.au/chronicdiseasestrategy (external link).
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Calculating
demand for an effective public health workforce. Final Report for
the National Public Health Partnership (July 2004) [PDF,
1.45 MB]
Calculating demand for an effective public health workforce represents
the final part of a two-stage project to investigate a model of
planning for the public health workforce (First
Stage - Planning framework for a public health workforce, June 2002
(PDF, 328 kb). The final report
details the practical application of a planning model based on the
categorisation of public health workforce competencies. A planning
tool is proposed for use at the program level. The report includes
recommendations for future work which are not endoresed by the NPHP
at this time.
Child Health
Screening and Surveillance: Supplementary Document - Context and
Next Steps (September 2002) [PDF, 163kb]
This paper has been developed by the Child and Youth Health Intergovernmental
Partnership (CHIP) in response to the National Health and Medical
Research Council report Child Health Screening and Surveillance:
A Critical Review of the Evidence (February 2002). The
paper includes a very brief summary of the NHMRC report; an outline
of the context for screening and surveillance as one part of prevention
and early detection of child health problems; and proposals for
the next steps for taking the review recommendations forward.
Confidentiality and
Privacy Provisions in Public Health: Legislation and the Power to
Transfer Information Between Jurisdictions – Background Paper
(November 1998) [PDF, 236kb]
The National Public Health Partnership Group’s Legislation
Reform Working Group, as a first step in its task to consider confidentiality
and privacy in public health legislation, requested Dr Christopher
Reynolds from Flinders University in South Australia to prepare
this paper which considers issues in the transfer of confidential
information across State and Territory borders.
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Deciding and Specifying an Intervention Portfolio (Planning Framework
– User Guide (October 2000) [PDF,
268kb]
The aim of this document is to provide a practical guide
to portfolio selection for public health decision-makers which is
consistent with the Planning Framework for Public Health Practice.
Developing an Active Australia – a Framework for Action
for Physical Activity and Health. Author: Commonwealth Department
of Health and Aged Care. This paper is available on the Commonwealth
Department of Health and Aged Care’s Population Health Division
Website at http://www.health.gov.au/pubhlth/publicat/document/active.pdf
[PDF, 209kb].
Discussion Paper
on the National Public Health Partnership (September 1996) [PDF,
176kb]
This paper was circulated in September 1996 as part of the consultation
process that led to the establishment of the NPHP. It provides useful
background information as to why the Partnership was established
and broadly outlines the priorities for a national partnership on
public health, that now appear in the work program of the NPHP.
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Eat
Well Australia: an agenda for action in public health nutrition,
2000–2010 (October 2001) [PDF, 932kb]
[Detailed review]
The national public health nutrition strategy Eat Well Australia
contains two complementary national public health nutrition strategies
– this one focusing on the whole of population and another
on Indigenous Australians. The strategies were developed during
1999–2000 through a consultative and participatory process
with hundreds of key stakeholders from government, non-government
and industry organisations. The suite of documents produced includes
two detailed reviews of the priority strategy areas and two strategic
summaries. Approved by the Australian Health Ministers Conference
August 2001.
Eat Well Autralia: a strategic
framework for public health nutrition, 2000–2010 (October 2001)
[PDF, 911kb] [Strategic
summary]
See description in the previous listing.
Emergency
Powers and Cross-Jurisdictional Issues Regarding Outbreaks of Communicable
Diseases [PDF, 891kb]
This report was commissioned jointly by the Legislation Reference
Network and the Communicable Disease Network Australia on behalf
of the National Public Health Partnership. The report maps the health
and other emergency powers legislation in the federal, state and
territory jurisdictions in Australia, and identifies differences
and gaps. It looks at legal preparedness for an outbreak of communicable
disease of national or international significance and suggests a
number of options to facilitate a more cooperative, uniform and
coordinated approach.
enHealth Council Position on Copper Chrome Arsenate (CCA) Treated Timber Products - July 2005 [PDF, 36k] [Introduction]
enHealth Council has considered the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicine Authority’s (APVMA) report on the Review of Arsenic Timber Treatment Products, released in March 2005. The report recommends cancelling the use of Copper Chrome Arsenate (CCA) treatment of timber intended for structures such as garden furniture, picnic tables, exterior seating, children’s play equipment, patio and domestic decking and handrails from March 2006. CCA is used to treat timber for the prevention of insect (termite) and fungal damage.
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Food
Security Options Paper: A planning framework & menu of options
for policy and practice interventions (2003) [PDF,
420kb]
This document was prepared by the NSW Centre for Public Health Nutrition
for NSW Health and is a guide to intervention options for reducing
the inequities in health caused by inadequate, low quality or unreliable
food intake. It describes policy and practice interventions for
improving the diet and nutrition of disadvantaged groups
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Getting Australia Active: Towards better practice for the promotion
of physical activity [PDF, 1.1MB]
A comprehensive update on the state-of-the-art of physical activity
promotion. The information provided in this document will enable
physical activity stakeholders to guide better practice, engage
potential partners and advance the physical activity agenda. This
document has been designed primarily for health professionals, health
promotion and exercise science professionals. It will also be read
with interest by others who have an important role in encouraging
‘active living’. The report encourages critical thinking
in developing programs in this area, and the development and use
of best-practice approaches to physical activity promotion in Australia.
Getting Australia Active
is available from Information Victoria at a cost of $24.00.
Information Victoria is located at 356 Collins Street, Melbourne
and can be contacted on 1300 366 356
Summary Document Getting
Australia Active: Towards better practice for the promotion of physical
activity - summary [PDF, 151kb]
The Summary Document- Getting
Australia Active is available by contacting the NPHP
Secretariat
Getting Australia Active II: An
update of evidence on physical activity for health (2004)
Complete publication
Getting
Australia Active II - Main Body [PDF, 1.59MB]
Getting
Australia Active II - Appendices [PDF, 2.53MB]
Individual Sections and Appendices
Sections:
GAA
II - Section 1:Update of the epidemiological evidence on physical
activity and health [PDF, 930kb]
GAA
II - Section 2: Update on the effectiveness of interventions to
increase physical activity - what works? [PDF,
226kb]
GAA
II - Section 3: Review of relevant national strategy related documents
[PDF, 372 kb]
GAA
II - Section 4: An international review of policies on physical
activity [PDF, 224kb]
GAA
II - Section 5: Conclusions and recommendations from the literature
review updating the evidence on physical activity [PDF,
231kb]
Appendices:
GAA
II - Appendix 1: Populations [PDF, 385kb]
GAA
II - Appendix 2: Settings [PDF, 661kb]
GAA
II - Appendix 3: Mediated Approaches [PDF,
441kb]
GAA
II - Appendix 4: Environment [PDF, 751kb]
GAA
II - Appendix 5: Physical Activity and Chronic Disease [PDF,
665kb]
Guidelines
for Improving National Public Health Strategies Development and
Coordination (May 1999) [PDF, 256kb]
This document has evolved out of an initial consultative process
with a sample of state program managers and the Chairs of a number
national public health strategy committees, a mapping of national
strategies and review of strategy evaluation reports.
Broader public release of an earlier paper (Draft Working Paper
on National Strategies Coordination - Work In Progress July 1998)
and the feedback received has led to the development of the current
document.
Guidelines for the
development, implementation and evaluation of National Public Health
Strategies in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
peoples - Approaches and Recommendations [PDF,
337kb]
The first phase has been completed of a two-part project to develop
guidelines for national public health strategies in relation to
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The report describes
the findings of a literature review and Australia-wide consultations
on issues related to the development and implementation of national
public health strategies with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
communities. Recommendations are made on the content of guidelines
and these will form the basis of the second phase of the project;
the preparation of guidelines.
Guidelines
for the Early Clinical and Public Health Management of Meningococcal
Disease in Australia (September 2001)
The Guidelines were developed by a working party of CDNA to assist
primary care practitioners with the emergency management of cases
of suspected invasive meningococcal disease and to assist public
health practitioners with the prevention of further cases after
a case of invasive meningococcal disease has been reported. The
Guidelines include information about emergency and hospital management
of suspected cases; laboratory tests; public health management of
outbreaks; and reporting and surveillance of meningococcal disease.
Guiding Principles
for Smoke-Free Public Places and Workplaces Legislation (Endorsed
by AHMAC November 2000) [PDF, 42kb]
Produced by the NPHP Legislation Reform Working Group as part of
the Legislators’ Tool Kit.
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Healthy
Children - Strengthening Promotion and Prevention Across Australia.
Developing a National Public Health Action Plan for Children 2005-2008,
Consultation Paper, June 2004 [PDF 471KB]
This paper has been prepared to stimulate
discussion about possible inclusions in the National Public Health
Action Plan for Children. It outlines a framework that has an underlying
emphasis on promotion and prevention and proposes where the most
effective initiatives may be made to address child health inequalities.
Healthy
Children - Strengthening Promotion and Prevention Across Australia.
Development of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander component
of the National Public Health Action Plan for Children 2005-2008,
Background Paper, September 2004 [PDF 1,088KB]
This Background Paper reflects the importance
of cultural identity, an holistic concept of health and healing,
and a focus on children as part of an intergenerational concept
of family. It was prepared for the Child and Youth Health Intergovernmental
Partnership (CHIP), by Innovative Leadership Australia, in consultation
with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Working Group of
CHIP. It aims to stimulate discussion about the development of a
national approach to the public health of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander children and is a guide to what could be included
in the National Public Health Action Plan for Children 2005-2008.
Healthy Children – Strengthening Promotion and Prevention across Australia. National Public Health Strategic Framework for Children 2005–2008 [PDF 306KB].
The Strategic Framework was developed following extensive consultation with jurisdictions, and organisations with a specific interest in the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, and a national consensus workshop. It provides a comprehensive set of directions for filling existing gaps and facilitating and strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders in the health, welfare and education sectors relating to children. It builds on existing strategies relevant to child health, such as the NPHP’s physical activity and nutrition strategies. The Strategic Framework also aligns with the work of the National Obesity Taskforce, Child Health and Wellbeing Reform Agenda Working Group (HRAWG), the National Maternity Services Collaboration and the National Agenda for Early Childhood.
Highlights of Public Health Activity in Australia 1999–2000:
A report to the Australian Health Ministers' Advisory Council from
the National Public Health Partnership
See below under National Public Health
Partnership Annual Reports
Highlights of Public Health Activity in Australia 2000-2001:
A report to the Australian Health Ministers' Advisory Council from
the National Public Health Partnership
See below under National Public Health
Partnership Annual Reports
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Immunisation Myths and Realities: Responding To Arguments Against
Immunisation – 3rd Edition
This paper is available on the Commonwealth Department of Health
and Aged Care’s Population Health Division Website at http://immunise.health.gov.au/myths_2.pdf
[PDF, 495kb].
Implementation
Options for National Legislative Schemes in Public Health –
Final Report (September 1999) [PDF, 401kb]
This paper was commissioned from the Centre for Comparative Constitutional
Studies by the Legislative Reform Working Group for the purpose
of providing a clear and comprehensive outline of the framework
in which intergovernmental arrangements may have some application
in the public health area, and to provide a guide for future decision-making
and policy implementation.
Annex
One: Extracts from the Commonwealth Constitution [PDF,
69.1kb]
Annex Two: Examples
The following
annexes are available only in PDF format:
1.
Examples of Ministerial Council activities, extracted from Intergovernmental
News (vol 9, no 1, April 1997) [PDF, 395kb]
2.
Intergovernmental Agreement on Mutual Recognition (1992) [PDF,
493kb]
3.
Agreement on the Adoption of Uniform Food Standards (1991) [PDF,
346kb]
4.
Consumer Credit (Victoria) Act 1995 [PDF, 393kb]
5.
Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Administration) Act 1992 (Cth) [PDF, 466kb]
6.
Native Title Act 1993 [PDF, 421kb]
7.
Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (Cth); Therapeutic Goods
Act (Victoria) 1994 [PDF, 1.3MB]
8.
Mutual Recognition (Queensland) Act 1992 [PDF, 1.2MB]
9.
Australasian Police Ministers' Council, Special Firearms Meeting,
Resolutions
, 10 May 1996 [PDF, 831kb]
10.
Memorandum of Understanding to establish a National Public Health
Partnership for Australia (1996) [PDF, 466kb]
Integrated
Public Health Practice: Supporting and Strengthening Local Action
- Background Paper - June 2000 [PDF,
509kb]
This Background Paper is based on a detailed literature review,
together with case studies which illustrate issues around integration
in practice. The work has been undertaken in recognition that national
strategies are often delivered through the same service providers,
such as general practitioners and Aboriginal health workers; identify
the same priority groups; and work through the same sectors, such
as local government. Integrated models of local service delivery
may create greater flexibility and hence provide an opportunity
to generate more efficient and sustainable public health responses.
A Discussion Paper
[PDF, 107kb] reflecting
the findings of the Integrated Public Health Project, has also been
produced. The aim of the discussion paper is to invite further input
so that policy and other levers for change can be developed and
adopted by jurisdictions and national public health strategies to
support more integrated approaches to complement current modes of
practice .
Issues
for Consideration in Industry Partnerships for Public Health Initiatives
(October 1998) [PDF, 286kb]
In response to a request from the National Environmental Health
Forum for advice on the use of industry sponsorship, the National
Public Health Partnership has developed Issues for Consideration
in Industry Partnership for Public Health Initiatives. The paper
is primarily for use by jurisdictions. A wide number of groups (including
The Body Shop) provided advice and comment on the various drafts
of the paper and their contribution is gratefully acknowledged.
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 Monitoring and Surveillance of Physical Activity in Children and Young People in Australia: Report of a National Consensus Workshop [PDF, 2.79mb]
Attachment 1 Instruments-Ridley [PDF, 213kb]
Attachment 2 Validity-Ridley [PDF, 247kb]
Attachment 3 Reliability-Ridley [PDF, 213kb]
Attachment 4 Sampling-Ridley [PDF, 220kb]
This project was identified as a priority in Be Active Australia and was approved by the National Public Health Partnership in April 2005. The report outlines the work undertaken by a workshop intended to reach a consensus on the best approach and tools for measuring and monitoring physical activity in children and young people in Australia.
Making the Connections [PDF, 670kb]
Making the Connections is aimed at informing the gap in knowledge and understanding that exists in the development and implemention of public health strategies aimed at working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This document is primarily for those who work in the field of health policy and strategic action on the national level but it is likely that it shall be of use to people working in a range of health related areas at the national, state/territory, regional and local levels who are looking for practical assistance and guidance on how to better work in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander public health.
Mental Health
Promotion & Prevention National Action Plan (January 1998)
Link to the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care website,
where this document is published.
Model
Provisions for Certification of Immunisation Status on School and
Child Care Entry (Endorsed by AHMAC June 2000) [PDF,
246kb]
The Model Provisions for Certification of Immunisation Status on
School and Child Care Entry are intended to provide a policy blueprint
to aid the development of new legislation and reviews of existing
legislation. (Approved by AHMAC June 2000)
The Model Regulatory
Impact Statement for the Notification of Immunisation Status Model
Legislation (November 2000) [PDF, 559kb]
is an additional resource.
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National Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Nutrition Strategy and Action Plan, 2000–2010
(October 2001)[PDF,
745kb] [Detailed review]
The national public health nutrition strategy Eat Well
Australia contains two complementary national public health
nutrition strategies – one focusing on the
whole of population and this one on Indigenous Australians.
The strategies were developed during 1999–2000 through a consultative
and participatory process with hundreds of key stakeholders from
government, non-government and industry organisations. The suite
of documents produced includes two detailed reviews of the priority
strategy areas and two strategic summaries. Approved by the Australian
Health Ministers Conference August 2001.
National Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Nutrition Strategy and Action Plan, 2000–2010:
a summary (October 2001) [PDF, 608kb]
[Strategic summary]
See description in the previous listing.
National Delphi Study
on Public Health Functions in Australia – Report on the findings
(January 2000) [PDF, 841kb]
Appendix [PDF,
987kb]
The national Delphi Study, involving respondents from a spectrum
of public health areas, is a landmark step towards defining the
functions of public health in Australia. It builds on work by the
World Health Organisation (WHO), and in the United States, where
definitions of core or essential public health functions have been
developed and applied in various ways. The NPHP has released this
report on the results of the Delphi Study to encourage further discussion
on a definition of public health
functions in Australia.
National Directions for
Research and Development in Public Health (February 1998) [PDF,
336kb]
The National Public Health Partnership has developed a discussion
paper on National Directions for Public Health in Australia. The
paper overviews the current history of public health research in
Australia and current funding arrangements. A proposed framework
for public health in Australia, a series of principles and proposed
areas for research and development are provided.
National
Environmental Health Strategy (1999)
The National Environmental Health Strategy is the first national
approach to the management of environmental health issues in Australia.
It was developed by the National Environmental Health Forum, an
advisory group of the National Public Health Partnership.
The Strategy acknowledges that Environmental Health involves a
broad range of subject areas and involves a wide variety of stakeholders.
The Strategy provides a basis for bringing these stakeholders together
nationally.
The Strategy also provides a framework for increasing the ability
and capacity of those providing environmental health services in
Australia. It does so by outlining clear processes for improving
the assessment, prevention, control and management of environmental
health hazards.
National Falls Prevention for Older People Plan: 2004 Onwards [PDF file, 295k]
This Plan complements The National Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Plan 2004-2014 and links with The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Safety Promotion Strategy. This document provides a strategic framework for collaborative action across jurisdictions, local government and organisations, to prevent falls and minimise fall related injuries in older people throughout Australia.
National Injury Prevention Plan (endorsed by Health Ministers
August 2001)
The following two documents can be downloaded in PDF format:
National
Public Health Expenditure Report
2000-01
This is the third comprehensive report on expenditure on public
health services in Australia. Most public health activities are
aimed at preventing illness and enhancing the wellbeing and quality
of a nation's population. That is, what is spent now on public health
services is an investment that should result in fewer demands on
health services, and better health for the population as a whole,
over time. This report examines expenditure by the Australian Government
and each State and Territory Government in nine core public health
activities, for the period 2000-01.
Click on the link to view the media
release and the Report.
National Public
Health Information Development Plan [PDF,
297kb]
(Endorsed AHMAC 20/04/99)
The National Public Health Information Development Plan (NPHIDP)
represents the National Public Health Partnership's (NPHP) first
comprehensive strategy for the development of public health information
in Australia. The Partnership has adopted a widely-used definition
of public health - the organised response by society to protect
and promote health and to prevent illness, injury and disability
(NPHP Memorandum of Understanding, adapted from Last, 1987)-and
has been active in developing a common framework within which the
partners can work together on a national approach to public health
action.
The Plan has been jointly drafted by the Australian Institute
of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and members of the Partnership's National
Public Health Information Working Group (NPHIWG), it represents
the efforts and contributions of many people, including participants
at the NPHIDP Workshop of some 120 people held in Hobart during
September 1998. The preparation of this Plan has also drawn on a
number of documents for guidance.
National Public Health Nutrition
Strategy (Eat Well Australia)
The national public health nutrition strategy Eat Well Australia
contains two complementary national public health nutrition strategies
– this one focusing on the whole of population and another
on Indigenous Australians. The strategies were developed during
1999–2000 through a consultative and participatory process
key stakeholders from government, non-government and industry organisations.
The suite of documents produced includes two detailed reviews of
the priority strategy areas and two strategic summaries. Approved
by the Australian Health Ministers Conference August 2001.
Detailed reviews:
Strategic summaries:
National Public Health Partnership
- Final Evaluation Report, January 2002 [PDF,
743kb]
This report presents the findings and recommendations of the evaluation
of the National Public Health Partnership (NPHP). The Partnership's
Evaluation Working Group (EWG) has had responsibility for oversight
of the monitoring and evaluation strategy. The actual monitoring
and evaluation has been carried out by a team from La Trobe University
(LTU) in Victoria and Queensland University of Technology (QUT),
under the direction of Professors Stephen Duckett and Brian Oldenburg.
National Public Health
Partnership and Public Health Research & Development in Australia,
The (November 1998) [PDF, 179kb]
The purpose of this paper is to help the National Public Health
Partnership (NPHP) decide on its role in public health R&D and determine
action that might follow from that decision. The paper argues that
there are two broad-ranging problems with Australian public health
R&D: a problem of fragmentation (due to geographic and institutional
dispersion of research expertise and a lack of multi-sectoral mechanisms
for answering research questions) and a problem of connectivity
(due to the separation of public health research from policy and
practice). Because the NPHP Group comprises the people who have
chief operational responsibility for public health services in the
jurisdictions, the NPHP has great potential to help overcome both
of these problems, in concert with other agencies which have responsibility
for the funding, direction, and provision of public health R&D.
National Public Health Partnership Annual Reports
Report From The National Public Health Partnership Group to the Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council for 2003-2004.
Report From The National
Public Health Partnership Group to the Australian Health Ministers’
Advisory Council for 2002-2003.
National
Public Health Partnership Background Paper for the Food Regulation
Review (November 1997) [PDF, 125kb]
This paper was submitted by the National Public Health Partnership
Group to the Food Regulation Review and gives a general public health
perspective on food regulation, and is intended to complement the
submissions of individual jurisdictions to this Review.
National Public
Health Partnership Background Paper to SRDC Consultations on Setting
NHMRC Strategic Research Priorities for the Triennium 2000–2002
(October 1999) [PDF, 153kb]
In preparation for involvement in the Discussion (Focus) Groups
for the NHMRC Strategic Research Development Committee (SRDC) priority
research setting process, the NPHP prepared this background paper
on priority public health research. The paper was provided to the
SRDC for circulation to Discussion group participants.
National Public Health Partnership
Public Health Workforce Development Background Paper (June
1998) [Pdf, 330kb]
A review has been undertake of current and emerging issues, largely
informed by the body of work already undertaken on aspects of the
public health workforce. This background paper has been prepared
to facilitate national consultation and feedback to the Partnership
Group on priority workforce development plans and an understanding
of the barriers to change.
National Public Health Partnership
Report to the Health and Medical Research Strategic Review (Wills
Review) (June 1998) [PDF, 377kb]
This background paper, developed by jurisdictional representatives
of the NPHP Group, compliments submissions from health authorities
of individual jurisdictions. It examines Australia's current investment
in health and medical research and its contribution to improving
knowledge, health and economic development from a public health
perspective. The paper also examines future need for public health
research in Australia and provides some overarching principles and
possible strategic directions to support an optimal system of public
health research.
National Response to Passive Smoking in Enclosed Public Places
and Workplaces: A Background Paper (November 2000)
This background paper forms part of the national response to environmental
tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure in public places and workplaces. While
the Australian Government has taken a leading role in this development,
the enactment of legislation regarding passive smoking remains the
responsibility of the States and Territories. Information is therefore
presented to assist jurisdictions in the continuing development
of their own responses to this issue.
National
Strategic Plan for Tuberculosis Control in Australia Beyond 2000
(March 2002)
Australia has an enviable record in the control and treatment of
tuberculosis but it is important to maintain an appropriate level
of effort in combating this disease even though numbers are low
by historical standards and in a global context. The National TB
strategy was developed by the CDNA National Tuberculosis Advisory
Committee, endorsed by CDNA and launched by the Minister for Health
and Ageing in March 2002. It identifies priorities and strategies
to ensure continued improvement in Australia’s TB management,
while recognising that for some population groups this disease needs
close monitoring.
Notifiable Diseases
and Notification Mechanisms (Endorsed by AHMAC November 2000) [PDF,
344kb]
This paper focuses on the diseases of national importance which
should be notifiable in each jurisdiction and the legislative mechanisms
that can be utilised to provide a consistent framework for national
surveillance.The paper is intended to be used as a reference guide
for public health legislators. It discusses the purpose and need
for uniformity in this area and the form that best practice legislation
should take.
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Performance Indicator
Frameworks for Population Health - Workshop Report 16 March 2000
[PDF, 1.02MB]
The NPHP Group auspiced a workshop to provide advice to the newly
formed National Health Performance Committee. This report provides
a summary of the day’s proceedings and ways forward.
Performance
Indicators, Key Stakeholders and Data Collection Strategies (June
1998) [PDF, 153kb]
Planning Framework for the
Public Health Workforce - Discussion Paper (June 2002) [PDF,
329kb]
This discussion paper conceptualises workforce planning and proposes
a framework to categorise and assess the capacity of the public
health workforce, drawing from experiences within and outside the
health sector. To achieve this, a comprehensive review was undertaken
to national and international workforce planning literature. The
discussion paper will provide the basis for testing the proposed
model for public health workforce planning in 2002-2003.
Population Health Monitoring and Surveillance
Question Development Field Testing - Field Test 1 Report
Asthma, Demographic Characteristics & Diabetes (May 2003) [PDF,
765k]
The field testing of the demographic, asthma and diabetes modules
was successfully completed in November
2002. This report outlines the procedures used to conduct the field
testing and the results that have been found.
A summary of the main findings is presented below.
Some questions are recommended for use as they are. Some questions
are not recommended for use at all and
some are recommended for changes and retesting. Some questions
are 'preferred' for use. The 'preferred'
questions are based on economy of wording rather than one version
being more reliable than another.
Therefore, the use of these questions is a matter of preference
rather than necessity.
Population
Health Monitoring and Surveillance Question Development Field
Testing - Field Test 2 Report Alcohol Consumption, Cardiovascular
Disease & Tobacco Consumption (January 2004) [PDF, 691k]
The second CATI field testing of demographic, asthma, tobacco,
alcohol and cardiovascular questions was
successfully completed in November 2003. This report presents the
analysis of the field work. Based on this
analysis, some recommendations for future work are made as well as
recommendations on preferred wording
for CATI surveys.
There are three main conclusions that can be made about the results,
and these also reflect the first field testing:
- Questions on estimates
of prevalence have been consistently reliable over the two field
tests whereas
questions on estimates of frequency are less so, particularly
if a long time interval is involved.
- The purpose of questions
is often poorly defined. Analysing and making recommendations
on questions
without the purpose clearly defined is difficult. The lack
of clarity becomes most obvious when there are
significant differences in estimates due to wording or order.
- The
recommendations of expert bodies on the wording of questions
for CATI surveys may not reflect
known 'good practice' in such surveys. Many questions recommended
for use by such bodies showed
fair to poor reliability and were the subject of interviewer
comments about length and confusing wording.
There are three ways to approach this problem. Sample sizes
can be increased enough to offset the poor
1 reliability , but this is costly and probably not feasible
for jurisdictions; other methods can be used for
measuring such questions, which is probably the best option;
or new questions, more suitable to CATI
and more reliable, can be developed.
Possible Directions for Quality
in Public Health – An Ideas Paper for the Commonwealth Department
of Health and Aged Care – Australian Council on Healthcare
Standards – May 1999 [PDF, 337kb]
A systematic quality approach has been widely acknowledged and accepted
by industry in both Australia and overseas as an effective strategy
for improving performance and practices. This ideas paper proposes
an approach that can be used to achieve this objective. It begins
by reviewing public health, its culture and the major issues and
challenges facing the area. It then proposes a quality framework
and discusses how the framework could be applied.
Preventing Chronic
Disease: A Strategic Framework – Background Paper (October 2001)
[PDF, 228kb]
This paper presents a national framework for system-wide
strategic action that draws on the evidence about underlying determinants
of poor health, knowledge of risk factors that are common to a number
of diseases, and a lifecourse perspective on predisposing factors.
The framework is based on public health principles and practice,
with a strong emphasis on health promotion, and describes how this
practice can be incorporated across the continuum of care.
Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes - background paper (January 2005) [PDF, 242kb]
The Background Paper on Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes was prepared for the National Public Health Partnership as part of its initiatives related to the behavioural determinants associated with chronic disease prevention. The Paper provides a summary of diabetes prevalence and trends; reviews the evidence for the prevention of type 2 diabetes; and explores key research questions to effectively translate evidence into practice in this area. The Paper has formed the basis of the further work to provide an economic analysis of aspects of diabetes prevention programs in the Australian context. The Background Paper does not necessarily represent the position of members of the National Public Health Partnership and is made available in recognition of the increasing interest in chronic disease prevention.
Principles
to be Considered when Developing Best Practice Legislation for the
Management of Infected Persons who Knowingly Place Others at Risk
(December 2003) [PDF, 134kb]
The report deals with powers to control public
health risks in the event of an epidemic or where infected persons,
knowingly or recklessly, place others at risk. It examines this
difficult area of public health law, which needs to strike a balance
between protection of the community and protection of individual
liberty.
Promoting
Active Transport – An Intervention Portfolio to Increase Physical
Activity as a Means of Transport (2001) [PDF,
374kb]
‘Active transport’ means physical activity undertaken
as a means of transport. Increases in active transport are considered
likely to have significant direct health benefits, as well as indirect
benefits from reduced environmental pollution and increased community
cohesion. The portfolio pilot assessed the literature, and considered
current practice and knowledge to identify a mix of interventions
considered by experts to have the most potential to be effective.
Promoting and Facilitating Evidence-based Public Health and Health Promotion (PHERP funded project)
A number of training materials are now available that focus on using evidence in public health and health promotion policy, practice and research settings. The materials have been produced by the PHERP-funded project, Promoting and Facilitating Evidence-based Public Health and Health Promotion. Please note that links to the materails are provided, but this does not constitute endorsement by the NPHP.
Tertiary education teaching and student resource (School of Public Health, La Trobe University)
Systematic reviews training and support resources (Cochrane Health Promotion and Public Health Field)
Professional Development (University of Sydney)
Promoting Quality in Public Health – Report on Workshop held in Sydney on 6 December 1999 [PDF,
120kb]
The aim of the workshop was to identify the fundamental quality
issues for public health and to canvass ideas for addressing these
issues. The workshop also considered how future work and collaboration
on quality should be led.
Public Health Classifications Project documents
Public Health Classifications Project: Introductory letter, April 2006 [PDF, 26kb]
Public Health Classifications Project: Phase 1 final report, December 2005 [PDF, 1.75mb]
This report is the result of phase one of the Public Health Classifications Project and introduces the concept of a multi-dimensional public health classification system and describes the challenges in its development. The report presents version one of a classification of public health, outlines some potential practical applications, and proposes the next steps of phase two of the project.
Public
Health Classification Project Background Paper (September 2004)
[PDF, 177KB]
The Public
Health Performance Project Report to the National Public Health
Partnership Group (2002) [PDF, 61kb]
recommended the development of a unified classification system for
public health.
This paper provides background on issues underlying the development
of a classification system for public health that builds on the
core functions of public health
[PDF, 750KB] and can be used for
expenditure and performance monitoring.
Public Health in
Australia (August 1998)
Public Health in Australia has been produced by the National Public
Health Partnership to provide overseas visitors with a broad overview
of the evolution and operation of public health in Australia. The
booklet, which is also part of the Partnership's International Strategy,
includes demographic data, historical information, a description
of public health functions and the range of key providers, and advice
on national consultative mechanisms.
Public Health Law in Australia:
Its Current State and Future Directions – Ian Bidmeade and
Chris Reynolds (June 1997)
[PDF, 380kb]
Mr Ian Bidmeade and Dr Chris Reynolds were commissioned by the National
Public Health Partnership Legislation Reform Working Group to undertake
a study of public health legislation, and legislation affecting
public health. The key aims of the study were to provide a clear
analysis and informative discussion of public health law in Australia
and to make recommendations on collaborative and consultative mechanisms
involving relevant stakeholders required to effect legislative reform.
Parts 1 and 2 provide an up-to-date snapshot of the state of public
health law in each jurisdiction in Australia. Parts 3 and 4 discuss
some key issues in the regulation of key public health areas such
as disease and quarantine, immunisation and food.
Public
Health Performance Project: Report to the National Public Health
Partnership Group - October 2002 [PDF, 61kb]
The Public Health Performance
Project commenced in January 2002. It aims to develop a set of key
performance indicators for public health in Australia that can be
mapped to the system performance tier of the National Health Performance
Framework. The Public Health Performance Project used the National
Public Health Partnership’s Statement of Core Functions to
ensure that indicators for a range of public health activities were
considered. A report to the National Public Health Partnership Group
(NPHPG) summarises the outcomes of the Project and makes 19 recommendations.
The report was presented to the NPHPG on 29 October 2002. At that
meeting, the report’s recommendations were either agreed or
agreed in principle, subject to referral to the National Public
Health Partnership Information Working Group (NPHIWG) for advice.
At its meeting on 25 November 2002, the National Health Performance
Committee agreed to adopt the indicators recommended in the report
for inclusion in its next national report on health system performance.
The
following Appendices are available as separate pdf files:
Public
Health Practice in Australia Today – Core Functions (September
2000) [PDF, 750kb]
What capacity should the Australian public health system have to
effectively respond to known and emerging public health challenges
as we step in to the 21st century? This fundamental question underlies
this statement of the core functions of public heath in Australia
developed by the National Public Health Partnership.
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Quality Systems and Public
Health: Background Review [PDF,256kb]
A review of the main approaches or systems in the quality area considered
relevant to public health.
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Regulation of Infection Control
in the Body Art Industry in Australia and New Zealand - A Summary
- January 2002 [PDF, 66kb]
This Report provides an overview of the legislation, guidelines
and codes regarding infection control practices and Occupational
Health and Safety provisions for practitioners within the Body Art
industry in Australia. This Report is limited to providing an overview
of the legislation relating to Body Art as an invasive procedure
involving skin puncture.
Resource Allocation
in Public Health: An Economic Approach (August 1999) [PDF,
752kb]
This document begins by putting the current resource allocation
to public health in some perspective by examining the limited Australian
and international data on health expenditures over time and across
the States and Territories. It then outlines some of the techniques
used in resource allocation, from both the economic and administrative
perspectives, reviews their possible application to public health,
and makes some suggestions for future work.
Resource Allocation
in Public Health – Moving Forward – Workshop Report Summary
– 18 August 1999 – Sydney [PDF,
120kb]
This workshop dealt with the question of ‘how to get the best
population health outcomes for limited and constrained resources’
by exploring State and Territory experiences in applying various
resource allocation tools. The aim was to identify shared issues
and problems that might be the subject of common activity.
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Smoke-Free Public Places Legislation: Examples of Core Provisions
(Endorsed by AHMAC November 2000) [PDF, 79kb]
These principles and provisions are provided as a guide to decision-makers
and others wishing to develop new or review existing legislative
approaches to passive smoking.
Smoking,
Nutrition, Alcohol, Physical Activity (SNAP) Framework for General
Practice (June 2001)[PDF file, 149kb]
The SNAP Framework is an initiative of the Joint Advisory Group
(JAG) on General Practice and Population Health. It has been developed
by JAG in conjunction with Chairs of National Population Health
Strategies to guide the implementation of integrated approaches
to behavioural risk factor modification in general practice, focusing
on smoking, nutrition, alcohol and physical Activity
Summary Report
of Workshop on Envisioning Public Health in the 21st Century
(October 1998) [PDF, 326kb]
What will be the significant challenges for the public’s health
in the next century? How well are we prepared for these? What would
the public health system look like of we got it right for improving
and maintaining the health of the Australian population? What do
we need to do now to get there? These are some of the questions
which formed the basis of discussion at the ‘Envisioning Public
Health in the 21st Century’ workshop held on 20 October 1998
in Melbourne. The workshop took advantage of the visit to Australia
by Professor Leonard Syme (Professor Emeritus of Epidemiology, School
of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley).
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The
Application of Risk Management Principles in Public Health Legislation
– Final Report June 2000 [PDF, 994kb]
This paper considers how principles of risk assessment and risk
management can be reflected in public health legislation. The legislation
in question here is the ‘core’ public health acts, which
have long provided, and continue to provide, the first order public
health response to environmental problems.
The Financing of Public Health
Laboratory Services – Stage 1 Report – Issues Paper –
May 1999 [PDF, 382kb]
The main purpose of this report was to ‘identify mechanisms,
including financial ones, to improve, wherever necessary, the accessibility
and use of laboratory services and information for public health
purposes’, specifically in relation to communicable disease
control.
The Language of Prevention [PDF, 176kb]
Public Health use of the term prevention is associated with the efforts of society to promote, protect and sustain the health of the population and is categorised in terms of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. This document aims to explain the language of prevention from a public health point of view and foster a common understanding of prevention terminology.
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Safety Promotion Strategy [PDF, 320kb]
The Strategy outlines specific strategic requirements for improving safety and reducing the incidence and harm of injury to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The document builds on and is integrated with The National Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Plan: 2004-2014.
The National Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Plan: 2004-2014 [PDF, 401kb]
This Plan provides a strategic framework for injury prevention and safety promotion and is accompanied by the The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Safety Promotion Strategy [link] and the National Falls Prevention for Older People Plan: 2004 Onwards [link]. Key objectives and actions are identified to progress the goals of achieving a positive safety culture in Australia and the creation of safe environments."
The Role of Local Government
in Public Health Regulation (Endorsed AHMAC March 2002) [PDF,
467kb]
This report provides a general overview of the role of local government
in public health from a legislative perspective. It is essentially
a mapping exercise that aims to examine the relevant legislation
which sets out the role of local government in relation to public
health throughout Australia.
The Scope for Youth
Health Development (November 1999) [PDF, 609kb]
This is a briefing paper for the National Public Health Partnership
prepared by George Patton from the Centre for Adolescent Health.
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Why primary health care offers a more comprehensive approach for
tackling health inequities than primary care [PDF,
94kb]
In this article, characteristics of primary care and primary health
care are juxtaposed to show that if the strengths and limitations
of each model are understood, they can be mobilised in collaborative
partnerships to deal more effectively with health inequities than
our system has so far been able to do.
Workshop on the Application
of Risk Management Principles in Public Health Law – 27 March
2001 – Summary Report – September 2001 [PDF,
178kb]
On 27 March 2001, the Legislation Reform Working Group conducted
a workshop on the Application of Risk Management Principles in
Public Health Law. The workshop built on the earlier report
on the Application of Risk Management Principles
in Public Health Law (see above), commissioned by the LRWG from
Dr Chris Reynolds, School of Law, Flinders University.
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