Developing a community-led vision for public health and wellbeing in remote South Australia
The Challenge
The District Council of Coober Pedy needed a Community Health and Wellbeing Plan that met the requirements of the South Australian Public Health Act 2011 while responding to the unique needs of one of Australia's most remote and culturally diverse communities.
The project required more than a compliance document. Council needed a practical, evidence-based plan that reflected local priorities, recognised the social, environmental and cultural determinants of health, and provided a clear framework for coordinated action between Council, service providers, community organisations and residents.
Our Approach
Healthy Environs partnered with the District Council of Coober Pedy, with funding support from BHP to design and deliver a collaborative planning process grounded in evidence, local knowledge and meaningful community engagement.
We prepared a comprehensive State of Health Report, analysing local demographic, environmental and health data to establish a robust evidence base for decision-making. Alongside this, we delivered a tailored engagement program involving Council, Traditional Owners, service providers, community organisations, residents and other local stakeholders.
Through stakeholder workshops, local meetings, Council staff sessions, public drop-in opportunities and a community survey, we explored what health and wellbeing means in Coober Pedy, identified local strengths and challenges, and built shared understanding of future priorities. Emphasis was placed on culturally respectful engagement and recognising the importance of cultural determinants of health throughout the planning process.
The Outcome
The resulting Community Health and Wellbeing Plan provides Council and its partners with a practical roadmap for improving health and wellbeing across Coober Pedy.
The Plan identifies priority areas for action, strengthens partnerships, embeds health considerations into Council planning and supports community-led priorities. By combining robust evidence with local voices, the project created a shared framework for coordinated action and established a foundation for improved health outcomes, stronger collaboration and a more resilient, connected and thriving Coober Pedy community.
Project Highlights
Client: District Council of Coober Pedy
Funding Partner: BHP
Regional Public Health Planning
Community Health and Wellbeing Plan
Comprehensive State of Health Report
Community and stakeholder engagement across multiple sectors
First Nations and culturally responsive engagement
Evidence-based planning informed by local health data
Strategic facilitation and partnership development
Practical implementation framework aligned with the South Australian Public Health Act 2011
Remote and regional community expertise