Background
Australia has a growing crisis in obesity which is a major health issue in this country.
Australia is one of the fattest nations on earth with the rate of overweight and obesity amongst adults and children doubling over the past 20 years. Nearly two thirds of men (62 per cent) and just under half of women (45 per cent) are either overweight or obese, according to the last National Health Survey in 2004. It’s also a increasing problem with our kids – up to a quarter (20-25 per cent) of Australian children, aged 7-15 years, are overweight or obese.
The problem of obesity is complex but the solution is rather more straightforward – Australians need to lead healthier lives. Many of the health problems caused by obesity can be prevented by living a healthy and active life.
The Australian Government is tackling the obesity problem head-on through a range of projects. More information about Australian Government programs can be found here.