Published on Monday, 10 August 2026 at 8:00:00 AM
Healthy communities don't happen by accident. They are built through strong partnerships, access to services, safe environments and opportunities for people to connect, participate and thrive.
To help guide this work in our region over the next five years, Council has endorsed the Shire of Esperance Public Health Plan 2026–2031: Building Health and Wellbeing in Kepa Kurl, Esperance.
The Plan provides direction, actions and timeframes to improve health and wellbeing across the district, and recognises that building healthy communities is a shared responsibility. Everyone, from service providers, every level of government (federal, state and local), community organisations, businesses and residents, has a part to play.
Health and wellbeing are shaped by much more than access to healthcare. They are influenced by where we live, the opportunities available to us, our sense of community connection, access to recreation and open spaces, environmental conditions, emergency preparedness, and the support networks that help people live healthy and fulfilling lives.
The reviewed Plan builds on the Shire's previous Public Health Plan, adopted in 2021, and reflects current community needs, emerging public health issues and new requirements under the Public Health Act 2016.
Importantly, the Plan recognises that the Shire is not always the sole provider of services. In some areas, the Shire delivers services directly. In others, its role is to educate, advocate, connect people and organisations, support community-led initiatives, or work in partnership with others to achieve meaningful outcomes.
This approach acknowledges that meaningful improvements in health and wellbeing are most effective when communities, organisations and government work together.
The Plan was reviewed with support from the Shire’s Public Health Plan Working Group, bringing together locals to consider progress made under the previous Plan, emerging health priorities, community needs and legislative requirements. The Working Group will meet quarterly to monitor progress, discuss emerging issues and identify opportunities to improve health and wellbeing across the district.
The Shire acknowledges and thanks members of the Public Health Plan Working Group for their valuable contributions throughout the review process. Their knowledge, experience and commitment have helped shape a Plan that reflects both local priorities and future opportunities.
The Public Health Plan 2026–2031 provides a strategic framework for the next five years and will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains responsive to the changing needs of the community.
Read the Plan here and see how you can be part of making our region a healthier and safer place to live.
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