Hello, I am pleased to speak to you today about the recently released National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions 2026–2035 and the new Chronic Conditions Prevention and Integrated Care Program.
These two initiatives aim to improve outcomes for the 15.4 million Australians living with chronic health conditions. They also reflect the strong commitment of the Australian Government to better health for all Australians affected by chronic conditions.
The burden of chronic conditions impacts the day to day lives of many Australians as well as placing considerable strain on our hospitals, clinics and allied health services, driving up healthcare costs.
Chronic conditions remain the leading cause of illness, disability and premature death in Australia. Their impact is felt across all communities, affecting not only individuals but also families, workplaces and the wider health system.
Six out of 10 Australians live with one chronic condition and nearly 2 in 5 with more than one, highlighting how widespread these conditions are and the urgency of addressing them.
By prioritising prevention, early intervention, and integrated management of chronic health conditions, we can help to reduce the incidence and impact of chronic diseases.
Our new National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions encourages a collaborative approach, engaging governments, health professionals and community organisations, to work together to address both the physical and the social determinants of health.
By taking decisive action now, our nation can pave the way for a healthier future, where chronic conditions are diagnosed early and better managed and, where possible, prevented altogether.
The development of the framework was informed by a comprehensive consultation process. Over 400 submissions were received during our public consultations. This represents input from a diverse range of organisations.
The framework’s development also involved consultation with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation and with our state and territory governments.
This collaborative approach underscores our commitment to delivering a framework that reflects the needs and priorities of all members of the Australian community, supporting effective strategies for chronic disease prevention and care.
Our new Chronic Conditions Prevention and Integrated Care Program ensures that future investment is targeted, and in particular is focused on prevention, early detection, continuity of care, the management of multiple chronic conditions, as well as advancing health equity for members of priority populations.
The Australian Government has committed $109.9 million over three years from 2026, and further funding from 2029 to support the program.
Funding will be allocated to initiatives that show measurable, sustainable improvements in chronic condition outcomes.
There will be 2 avenues for funding: one for larger, multi-year, national activities, which we expect with be often delivered by consortiums or partnerships, addressing multiple chronic conditions or shared risk factors; and the other will be for smaller, time-limited activities for individual organisations to deliver targeted projects or pilot initiatives.
Applications are expected to open in the middle of this year with funded activities starting from December.
I want to thank you for your ongoing commitment to improving the care of people with chronic health conditions right across Australia.
I look forward to working with you as we strive together for better long‑term outcomes for everyone.
I am confident that the expertise across our country will deliver real and lasting impact on our prevention and management of chronic health conditions.
Thank you all.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd's provides information on the purpose and objectives of the National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions and the Chronic Conditions Prevention and Integrated Care Grants Program.