Healthy communities receive due recognition*

Life looks brighter outside; national winner Mid Murray Council

The Heart Foundation Local Government Awards recognise councils that demonstrate best practice in creating healthier communities.

Mid Murray Council (South Australia) and City of Sydney (New South Wales) have been named National Winners of the 2016 Heart Foundation Local Government Awards.

City of Greater Dandenong (Victoria) and Kiama Municipal Council (New South Wales) were awarded National Highly Commended.
Heart Foundation National Chief Executive Officer Adj. Prof. John Kelly AM congratulated the winners and said there are many preventative measures people can undertake to minimise the risk factors for heart disease.  

“Local environments that promote sustained healthy behaviour are vital to Australia’s future health,” Adj. Prof. Kelly said.

“All the councils recognised throughout Australia highlight how simple policy changes and a supportive local environment can alter the health of an entire community for the better.

“These winning councils have implemented a range of health-based initiatives such as active transport schemes, Public Health Plans, healthy catering policies and community activities that get people of all ages active”.

The Heart Foundation Local Government Awards are now in its 24th year. More information about the awards, including the 2016 winner booklet that profiles all national and state award recipients, can be found at: www.heartfoundation.org.au/lga
*Copy supplied by National Heart Foundation