The rise and fall of Australian physical activity policy 1996 – 2006: a national review framed in an international context
2008

Review of Australian Physical Activity Policy (1996-2006)

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bellew Bill, Schöeppe Stephanie, Bull Fiona C, Bauman Adrian

Primary Institution: University of Sydney

Hypothesis

How has physical activity policy developed in Australia over the past decade compared to international standards?

Conclusion

The review found inconsistent policy development in Australia, highlighting the need for sustainable multi-sectoral public health policy partnerships to effectively address physical inactivity.

Supporting Evidence

  • Australia's physical activity policy has seen phases of innovation and leadership.
  • The review highlighted a lack of systematic evaluation of national policy implementation.
  • Political support and long-term investment are crucial for effective physical activity policies.

Takeaway

This study looks at how Australia has tried to promote physical activity over ten years and found that while there were some good efforts, many policies didn't last or work well.

Methodology

The study involved a literature and policy review, audits of relevant websites, document searches, and surveys of international stakeholders.

Potential Biases

The authors' involvement in physical activity policy may reflect personal perspectives in the review.

Limitations

The review focused on a narrow time frame and did not cover all physical activity policies worldwide.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1743-8462-5-18

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