Bringing the Outdoors to the Forefront of Public Policy
In the lead-up to the 2025 Federal Election, the Outdoor Council of Australia (OCA) is championing a transformative vision: to significantly enhance the wellbeing of Australians through structured and accessible outdoor activities. Our election position paper, "Pathway to Wellbeing," outlines critical initiatives aimed at advocating for a healthier, more resilient, and active Australia. These initiatives are not just beneficial—they are necessary for addressing the escalating public health challenges facing our nation today.
The Pressing Need for Outdoor Integration in Public Health
Recent studies, including our own findings and those from respected bodies like the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, indicate a troubling rise in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, particularly among the younger generation. Factors like the increasing cost of living, technological encroachment on quality social interactions, and a stark decline in physical activity are exacerbating these issues. Our election position underscores the outdoor industry's capability to add $11 billion annually to the economy, but more importantly, its potential to mitigate healthcare costs linked to mental health disabilities and sedentary lifestyles.
OCA’s Four-Point Plan for a Healthier Australia
Our approach is community-focused, aiming to unlock the vast benefits of the outdoors for every Australian, regardless of socioeconomic background:
Education: We advocate for universal access to Outdoor Education, recognising its proven benefits in enhancing mental health, resilience, and life skills. This is about equity—ensuring that all young Australians, not just those in privileged circumstances, can experience and benefit from the outdoors.
Mental Health & Physical Activity: We propose the creation of a Public Health Active Outdoor Recreation Education Program. With an estimated funding need of $5 million, this initiative aims to reverse the concerning trends in physical inactivity and its associated health repercussions.
Outdoor Workforce: Addressing the seasonal and transitional nature of the outdoor industry’s workforce, we call for the establishment of a leadership program that enhances diversity and retention in the sector. With a proposed budget of $450,000 over three years, this program will foster career development and progression within the industry.
Active Outdoor Recreation: We seek to bridge the gap in national policy regarding active recreation. By collaborating with the Office of Sport, we aim to develop a strategy that broadens the scope of physical activity to include non-competitive outdoor recreation, promoting mental health improvements and social cohesion.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
The outdoors is a vital resource in our fight against the mental health crisis and the rising tide of physical inactivity-related diseases. As we move toward the Federal Election, OCA is reaching out to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the community to support these pivotal initiatives. Together, we can forge a pathway to wellbeing that makes outdoor activities accessible and enjoyable for all, ensuring a healthier, more vibrant future for Australia.
We invite you to read our full position paper and join us in advocating for policies that recognise and maximise the benefits of the outdoors. Let’s make the natural choice the easy choice for all Australians. Download the template below and send to your local member to extend our voice.
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