A more active WA

Physical inactivity increases the risk of chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and other obesity-related illnesses.

What is active living?

Active living is a way of life that incorporates activity into daily routines and gets people up and moving. Everyday examples of active living include walking or cycling to the shops, school or work; taking public transport instead of driving; participating in an active class; playing sport; unstructured outdoor play for children; using the stairs instead of the lift; doing active tasks; and reducing recreational screen time.

Are we making progress?

In 2017, 60% of people in WA aged 18 years and over were estimated to be sufficiently active for good health. However, the prevalence of adults completing sufficient levels of physical activity in 2017 was not significantly different from 2007.

Is there room for improvement?

In 2017 in WA:

25% of older adults aged 65 years and over reported doing no physical activity
44% of adults aged 16 years and over reported spending most of their day sitting
39% of children aged 5 to 15 years were sufficiently active for good health.

What are the benefits of being more active?

Better health and social outcomes
A more sustainable environment
Reduced economic costs.

Things local government may already be doing

Providing cycle / walk paths
Developing nature walk trails
Creating green streetscapes
Promoting local activities.

More things local government can do

Improve environments and facilities for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users by creating a network of safe and accessible walking paths and cycle ways linking facilities and recreation opportunities
Promote active transport (external site) and infrastructure improvements to encourage people to choose active travel options
Create and promote the availability of public open spaces with shaded areas (external site) that encourage and enable all communities to be physically active (external site)
Encourage local businesses and industries to become Healthier Workplaces (external site).

Healthy Active by Design (external site) has tools, practical advice, checklists and case studies to help with the development of healthy neighbourhoods and communities that promote walking, cycling and active living.

Find more information on the roles of local government and suggested physical activity strategies in Pathway to Increase Active Living A Guide for Local Government.