Injury Prevention Policy in Australia
Author Information
Author(s): Rebecca Mitchell, Rod McClure
Primary Institution: NSW Injury Risk Management Research Centre, University of New South Wales
Hypothesis
The effectiveness of injury prevention policy in Australia has been compromised by low community participation and inadequate government commitment.
Conclusion
Injuries are preventable, but without sufficient resources and commitment, the National Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Plan 2004–2014 is unlikely to achieve its goals.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 7,800 Australians die each year from injury.
- There are $1.3 trillion of potential health gains to be made from reducing injuries alone.
- Reducing injuries in Australia by just under one-third would equal savings of over $370 billion.
Takeaway
This study shows that many injuries can be prevented, but the government needs to work better together and put more resources into preventing them.
Limitations
The study highlights the lack of effective consultation and stakeholder involvement in the development of injury prevention policies.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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