The government is being called on to consider the health impacts of climate change in its policy decisions. A survey by Asthma Australia suggests sufferers feel more should be done to protect the most vulnerable.
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00:00 We are very supportive of the government's commitment to a climate and health strategy
00:06 and the recent consultation was a good starting point for that.
00:10 But the consultation paper focused very strongly on the health sector, on reducing emissions
00:15 from the sector and on preparing the sector for increased demand due to health impacts
00:20 of climate change.
00:22 We think first and foremost the number one objective of the strategy needs to be to protect
00:27 the health and wellbeing of Australians and it was also very low on detailed action.
00:32 So we would like to see a detailed draft strategy before progressing to a final strategy as
00:40 the government have suggested so that we can detail actions, consult with the community
00:45 and ensure the strategy achieves its full potential.
00:49 And ASTMA Australia would like to see actions on air pollution and housing specifically.
00:54 So air pollution is the number one adaptation priority facing us going forward.
01:01 We would like to see funding for a national air quality public education campaign.
01:08 We'd like to see the expansion of low cost air quality sensors so every community can
01:13 have access to real time local air quality information and also supports for people with
01:18 respiratory issues on low incomes and who are renting.
01:23 And in terms of housing, most people are increasingly seeking shelter in their homes from the impacts
01:30 of climate change, whether it be heat, whether it be bushfires or floods.
01:34 So we would like to ensure that homes can be the safe and healthy spaces they need to
01:39 be.
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