Northern Territory Election Platform 2024

Media release: 7 August 2024

Prioritising heart health in the 2024 Northern Territory Election

The Heart Foundation is calling on political leaders to prioritise heart health in the upcoming Northern Territory Election.

The Northern Territory faces significant heart health challenges, with alarmingly high rates of heart-related hospital admissions and mortality, particularly among its First Nations population.

The prevalence of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) and Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) in the NT is among the highest in Australia. Nearly 92% of ARF diagnoses occur in First Nations populations, with Indigenous Australians experiencing a 5.2 times higher mortality rate from ARF and RHD compared to non-Indigenous people. These stark statistics punctuate the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the region’s heart disease challenges.

To combat these issues, the Heart Foundation has proposed a comprehensive strategy focusing on prevention and management of cardiovascular disease, particularly RHD. Key recommendations include:

• Expansion of Remote Community Laundries: In partnership with the Aboriginal Investment Group (AIG), this project aims will reduce RHD by providing regular access to clean laundry, which helps prevent skin infections like scabies that can lead to acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease
• Advertising Campaign on Vaping and Smoking: Targeted to the unique needs of the Northern Territory, this campaign aims to reduce smoking and vaping rates, which are significant contributors to heart disease
• Funding for a Project Officer: This role will deliver a preventative physical activity strategy through sporting clubs, promoting heart-healthy environments

Investment in these initiatives can significantly reduce the impact of RHD and other cardiovascular diseases, leading to healthier, more resilient communities. The Heart Foundation urges all political leaders to commit to these strategic actions and ensure a future where heart health inequities are eradicated.

Quotes attributable to Kevin Wrigley, NT General Manager, Heart Foundation:

"The Northern Territory faces unique and severe heart health challenges that require immediate and focused action. The Heart Foundation's comprehensive strategy aims to tackle these issues head-on, particularly within our First Nations communities who are disproportionately affected by Rheumatic Heart Disease."

"Investing in initiatives such as remote community laundries, anti-vaping and smoking campaigns, and promoting physical activity through sports clubs can significantly improve heart health outcomes in the Northern Territory. We urge political leaders to prioritise these recommendations in the upcoming election."

Quotes attributable to Liz Morgan-Brett, CEO, Aboriginal Investment Group:

"The Aboriginal Investment Group is proud to partner with the Heart Foundation to bring essential services to remote communities. The expansion of remote community laundries is a vital step towards addressing the social determinants of health and improving overall wellbeing."

"Access to basic amenities like laundry facilities not only improves hygiene but also creates job opportunities, contributing to the economic and social development of remote communities. This initiative is a clear example of how strategic investment can yield multifaceted benefits."