The Albanese Government has endorsed the Belém Health Action Plan for the Adaptation of the Health Sector to Climate Change.
The plan is a new international framework to help countries strengthen their health systems in response to climate change.
Developed by the Brazilian Ministry of Health as part of Brazil's Presidency of COP30, the plan was produced in collaboration with the World Health Organization and other UN agencies. It was launched on Health Day at COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
The plan recognises that preparing health systems for the impacts of climate change is a critical priority for all countries. It sets out practical steps to improve surveillance and monitoring, build capacity and support innovation so health systems can better respond to climate-related risks.
This work will help ensure health services across Australia and internationally remain safe, reliable and accessible when communities need them most.
The plan aligns strongly with Australia's National Health and Climate Strategy., which outlines a whole-of-government approach to address the health impacts of climate change, as well as the contribution the health system makes to climate change.
Australia's endorsement of the Belém Health Action Plan demonstrates our country's leadership in developing a strong health and climate change agenda.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"Climate change is not a distant threat; it's already impacting health.
"The Albanese Government is acting to make sure our health system is ready to protect communities from climate-related risks.
"By endorsing the Belém Health Action Plan, we are committing to practical steps that prepare our health system for climate impacts while reducing its environmental footprint."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White:
"The Australian Government has endorsed the Belém Health Action Plan, a strong signal of our commitment to engaging in global collaboration on health and climate issues.
"The plan recognises that climate change poses an urgent and growing threat to health systems and the health of people globally, and that adapting our health systems to respond to these threats is critical."
"Australia's endorsement of the plan reinforces our commitment to advancing a strong health agenda for all that supports people's wellbeing now and into the future."
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience, Kate Thwaites:
"The Belém Health Action Plan gives countries a shared framework to strengthen health systems and prepare for the growing impacts of climate change.
"By endorsing this plan, Australia is backing global cooperation and supporting the work needed to ensure health systems remain resilient and sustainable."
