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What we do
We bring together experts, data and evidence to give independent public health advice to government.
Our advice informs government decisions about preventing and controlling diseases and preparing Australia for future health threats.
Our work includes:
- tracking and assessing emerging health risks
- bringing together information, data and advice from across Australia and the region to enable early action
- providing clear and timely evidence-informed health advice and disease information
- recommending action across governments and communities
- promoting research and education to strengthen public health expertise
- collaborating and building partnerships across and outside government, nationally and internationally.
Our work is guided by the One Health approach. This means we recognise the connection between the health of people, the environment and animals.
Experts guide our priorities and ensure our advice to government is grounded in science, evidence and experience.
Read more about our leadership.
Why our work matters
The risk of public health emergencies is growing.
Climate change, natural disasters, global travel and population growth all mean more health threats.
Recent events – such as COVID-19, Japanese encephalitis and outbreaks of bird flu overseas – have shown how important it is for Australia to be ready to respond.
Our work provides a clear national picture of risk and consistent national advice to enable all levels of government to act early and consistently.
Our priorities
Communicable diseases prevention and surveillance
We work to reduce the risks posed by communicable diseases in Australia by:
- providing health information and advice
- monitoring and reporting on communicable diseases
- publishing guidance to support health professionals and authorities
- issuing health alerts to warn about disease outbreaks
- supporting communications campaigns targeting at-risk populations.
Read more about our work to protect Australians against disease.
Climate and health
We work to:
- address the impacts of climate change on health and the health system
- build a sustainable, resilient, high-quality, net-zero health system
- support climate-resilient and inclusive health systems.
Environmental health
We work to protect human health from the impacts of environmental hazards in Australia, including:
- air quality
- environmental toxins and contaminants
- occupational threats such as silica dust
- water quality.
Read more about our work to protect the health of Australians from environmental risks.
Who we work with
We work closely with governments, health professionals, researchers, communities and international partners.
We listen to and learn from diverse voices, including:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- people with disability
- culturally and linguistically diverse communities
- at-risk populations.
How we use and manage data
We work to use enhanced data to strengthen the evidence base for our advice. We ensure the privacy of individuals is protected.
Read more about how we use and manage data.
Legislation and transparency
We publish our advice for full transparency and accountability.
This is embedded in the legislation. It ensures everyone can see the advice behind public health decisions.
Read more about the legislation we operate under and our commitment to transparency.
Connect with us
We seek views on our work through online surveys, consultations and other engagement activities. When opportunities to contribute are available, we publish them on our website and consultation hub.
To stay informed about upcoming opportunities:
- Check our news page for announcements
- Follow us on social media for timely updates.
These channels help you stay connected to our activities as they develop.