The 'barriers' putting a $1.5 billion health burden on western Sydney

Western Sydney residents are missing out on opportunities for sport, exercise, and outdoor recreation compared to wealthier parts of the city - and it's costing $1.5 billion a year.

A new report from Western Sydney University and WSYD Moving found that the region faced a physical inactivity "crisis", with more than 40 per cent of adults insufficiently active, compared to less than 30 per cent in other parts of Sydney.

This is costing about $1.5 billion a year in health, lost productivity, and death.

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The Australian Heart Foundation estimated that insufficient exercise was a risk factor for 72 to 76 per cent of heart disease in western Sydney, compared to 52 to 65 per cent in the rest of the city.

And western Sydney residents suffer higher rates of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

But the report authors said the difference came down to structural and social barriers, rather than individual choice.

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"These disparities are tied to structural barriers such as socioeconomic status, time pressures, cost of living challenges, care responsibilities, and limited access to inclusive recreational spaces and programs to cater to Western Sydney's diverse population," lead researcher Dr Angela Smith said.

"Western Sydney residents face other barriers such as poor transport connectivity, limited walkability, and high heat vulnerability."

The report calls for more investment in the most marginalised areas, and empowered local leadership.

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Lead author David Burns from WSYD Moving said there needed to be a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach.

"Physical activity is ultimately an equity issue. It's not just about individual choice; it's about how the system works. Our report is a call for greater cross-sector collaboration," he said.

"This is an issue that demands strategic investment to ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of sport, recreation and physical activity."

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Dr Rhonda Itaoui, Director of the Centre for Western Sydney, said the new collaboration with WSYD Moving is critical for addressing inactivity in the Western Sydney region.

"The diverse and growing populations in the region deserve equitable access to resources that support active lifestyles. By working together, we can create an environment where everyone in Western Sydney can thrive through physical activity, sport, and recreation," she said.

"Quantifying the costs of inactivity and proposing a systems-based plan needed to truly address these challenges are both vital to reducing disparities and fostering inclusive communities."

Read the full report here.

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