Tracy Nau , Lee K, Smith BJ, Bellew W, Reece L, Gelius P, Rutter H, Bauman A (2019)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2019
Book Volume: 16
Pages Range: 1029-1038
Journal Issue: 11
Background: The value of a systems thinking approach to tackling population physical inactivity is increasingly recognized. This study used conceptual systems thinking to develop a cognitive map for physical activity (PA) influences and intervention points, which informed a standardized approach to the coding and notation of PA-related policies in Australia. Methods: Policies were identified through desktop searches and input from 33 nominated government representatives attending 2 national PA policy workshops. Documents were audited using predefined criteria spanning policy development, strategic approaches to PA, implementation processes, and evaluation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The audit included 110 policies, mainly led by the health or planning/infrastructure sectors (n = 54, 49%). Most policies purporting to promote PA did so as a cobenefit of another objective that was not focused on PA (n = 63, 57%). An intention to monitor progress was indicated in most (n = 94, 85%); however, fewer than half (n = 52, 47%) contained evaluable goals/actions relevant to PA. Descriptions of resourcing/funding arrangements were generally absent or lacked specific commitment (n = 67, 61%). Conclusions: This study describes current PA-relevant policy in Australia and identifies opportunities for improving coordination, implementation, and evaluation to strengthen a whole-of-system and cross-agency approach to increasing population PA.
APA:
Tracy Nau, ., Lee, K., Smith, B.J., Bellew, W., Reece, L., Gelius, P.,... Bauman, A. (2019). Toward Whole-of-System Action to Promote Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectoral Analysis of Physical Activity Policy in Australia. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 16(11), 1029-1038. https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2019-0122
MLA:
Tracy Nau, , et al. "Toward Whole-of-System Action to Promote Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectoral Analysis of Physical Activity Policy in Australia." Journal of Physical Activity and Health 16.11 (2019): 1029-1038.
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