DEA's Legacy in Environmental Health Leadership
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) celebrates the 25th anniversary of Doctors for the Environment Australia (DEA), acknowledging its pivotal role in advocating for climate and environmental health across Australia. DEA has been instrumental in highlighting the health impacts of climate change, environmental degradation, and pollution, promoting evidence-based solutions to protect both people and the planet.
Dr. Kate Wylie, DEA’s Executive Director, expressed pride in the organisation’s achievements. She stated, “We have driven significant progress, including integrating climate and health into medical curricula, multiple medical colleges declaring a climate health emergency, and developing a National Health and Climate Strategy.”
RACGP President Dr. Michael Wright emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing climate-related health challenges. General practitioners often see firsthand how environmental factors like extreme heat and air pollution impact patient health. “Over many years, the RACGP and DEA have shared a commitment to elevating climate and environmental health as a priority for policymakers and the health sector,” Dr. Wright noted.
Collaborative Efforts for Environmental Health
According to Dr. Nicole Sleeman, Chair of the RACGP Specific Interests in Climate and Environmental Medicine, DEA’s advocacy is essential as climate impacts grow, demonstrating that doctors’ roles extend beyond the consultation room. “DEA demonstrates that our role as doctors extends beyond the consult room. In the face of escalating climate impacts, its advocacy is critical,” she said.
The RACGP supports these efforts through advocacy, policy contributions, and assisting GPs in managing environmental health risks. The Climate and Environmental Medicine Specific Interests group advances education, advocacy, and practical action in this field.
Dr. Wright commented, “As trusted health professionals, GPs have a key role in identifying and managing the health impacts of climate change. Encouraging community-focused care is vital to minimizing the health system’s environmental footprint. We look forward to continuing to work alongside DEA to support patients and communities, and to help ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all.”
Last updated: 25 April 2026, 9:14 am
