The QPHF is a strategic leadership alliance of government and non-government organisations with a commitment to improving public health outcomes in Queensland. It was established in 1998, as the major outcome of the Public Health Partnerships in Queensland Symposium, which was held in July 1998. Over 240 representatives attended the Symposium from government, non-government, private industry and tertiary education sectors. There was a significant level of agreement by Symposium participants that there were opportunities to strengthen the way organisations involved in public health worked together, both in terms of strategic alignments and networking to implement strategies.
QPHF has identified key public health issues which will respond to effective intervention strategies and has developed a plan for advancement of these issues. QPHF also encourages research and workforce development that will facilitate sustainable public health outcomes and supports public health developments which are consistent with the purpose and goal of the QPHF.
The Queensland Public Health Forum facilitates collaboration between organisations with the aim of maximising public health outcomes.
To improve the health status of the individuals and communities of Queensland.
The QPHF provides practical recommendations for action based on broad consideration of evidence and the consequences of public health issues for the individuals and communities of Queensland through:
The partnering approach modelled by the QPHF galvanises the efforts and actions of each member organisation including their strengths, expertise, areas of influence and existing investments. This approach realises benefits in terms of integrating public health initiatives and minimising duplication of effort.
A key and unique advantage achieved through the establishment of the QPHF has been the provision of a recognised, formal and regular mechanism for active discussion, action and engagement on key public health issues between multiple levels of government, non-government organisations and professional associations. In particular, it provides a valuable mechanism for the integration of population health with the primary health care sector, including general practice.
The value of the establishment of this mechanism and the approach adopted has been evidenced through the development and endorsement of strategic statements for priority issues and the development and implementation of Strategy documents (such as Eat Well Queensland and Be Active Queensland). The outcome of these processes has been an increased focus on the QPHF’s priority issues across key public health agencies, enhanced collaborative action and reduced duplication of effort.
The QPHF partnering approach capitalises on each organisation’s expertise and areas of influence to develop the most appropriate course of action for intervention in key public health issues. This collaborative approach provides benefits in terms of integrating public health initiatives, minimising duplication of effort and defining a clear strategic position to promote within and beyond the member organisations.
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