MEEGAN Fitzharris says a re-elected Labor government will appoint a Preventative Health Coordinator to focus on keeping Canberrans healthy.

“Labor has a comprehensive ten year health plan and preventative health is an important part of that plan,” Meegan said.

“We’re investing in preventative health, just like we’re investing in community health, primary health services, acute care, research and infrastructure across Canberra.

“Labor knows prevention is better than cure – that’s why if re-elected ACT Labor will create this new role to lead our work with the community, local organisations, the private sector and the ACT Government to help keep Canberrans healthy and out of hospital.

“This builds on commitments to invest a further $4 million in the Healthy Weight Initiative, which encourages people to get active and eat healthier foods. Earlier this week Labor announced we would provide further funding for the ‘It’s Your Move’ program in more high schools and continue the roll out of free water refill stations across Canberra.

“The Preventative Health Coordinator will be responsible for developing preventative health strategies, with a focus on addressing smoking rates, alcohol consumption and obesity, address the burden of disease and reduce the growing incidences of chronic health care conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression and osteoporosis.

“These changes take time, so it is important we look at long-term health impacts and outcomes as part of a ten-year health strategy.”