Experts Gather to Share Health Strategies
Australia’s largest preventive health conference will take place in Hobart from the 5th to the 7th of May, gathering more than 400 experts to discuss research on preventing illness and reducing pressure on healthcare services. The event aims to highlight various strategies to prevent disease and promote public health across the nation.
Organised by the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA), this significant event is hosted at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart. The PHAA, known as Australia’s peak body for public health, represents around 2,000 members from over 40 professional groups dedicated to public health promotion.
During the conference, experts will present their latest research. Amy Coates from the University of Tasmania will discuss her study on dementia risk reduction strategies for socioeconomically disadvantaged Tasmanians, using an implementation science approach. This research is vital for easing the burden on healthcare systems.
Diverse Research Topics
Professor Verity Cleland, also from the University of Tasmania, will showcase her work on empowering rural communities to measure walkability. This project involves co-developing a digital tool that communities can use to assess their environments, promoting healthier lifestyles.
Isis Loos from the Menzies Institute for Medical Research will delve into rural walkability for older people and individuals with disabilities in Tasmania. Her research aims to improve accessibility and health outcomes for these groups by addressing environmental barriers.
Dr Kim Jose will share insights from her study on community and place-based approaches, linking to the evaluation of Tasmania’s current preventive health strategy. This study emphasises the importance of tailored health interventions that consider local contexts and needs.
According to the PHAA, the conference will provide a platform for vital discussions about health prevention methods that could significantly reduce hospital admissions. Paris Lord, the PHAA Communications & Media Manager, is available for further comments and can be contacted at 0478 587 917.
The conference will run daily from 9 am to 5 pm, allowing ample time for discussions and networking among participants. Media representatives are invited to attend in person or watch remotely, ensuring wide dissemination of the conference’s findings. Meanwhile, the conference will also feature various workshops and panel discussions to facilitate deeper engagement with the topics.
Following the conference, the insights gathered are expected to contribute to shaping future health policies in Tasmania and beyond. This reflects the commitment of the PHAA to advance public health initiatives and foster collaborations among health experts.
While the conference is set in Hobart, its impact is intended to resonate across Australia, encouraging more comprehensive preventive health measures nationwide. As a result, the event is a crucial step towards enhancing public health and wellness across the country.
Last updated: 4 May 2026, 3:19 pm
