Australians living in strata communities are being urged to be more proactive in the types of health and wellness activities they undertake.

Residents need to make the most of onsite facilities – such as gyms, swimming pools and tennis courts – enjoyed by many strata schemes while those who do not have access to these types of amenities are encouraged to pull on some walking shoes and make the most of Australia’s many parks, bush walks and walking tracks.

The initiative is part of a world-wide push by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to get people everywhere to play their part in helping to improve the quality and health services globally.

“To make health for all a reality, we need: individuals and communities who have access to high quality health services so that they take care of their own health and the health of their families; skilled health workers providing quality, people-centred care; and policy-makers committed to investing in primary health care.”

To help ensure all individuals and communities receive the health services they need without suffering financial hardship, WHO has nominated Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as the key theme of this year’s World Health Day, which was on April 7.

Held annually since its inception in 1948, the day is traditionally marked by activities which extend beyond the day itself and serves as an opportunity to focus worldwide attention on important aspects of global health. In recent years it has brought to light important health issues such as mental health, maternal and child care, and climate change.

Each year numerous local organisations, including the George Institute, also get in on the action, doing their bit to ensure promotion of the cause. However ahead of this year’s commemorations, every day Australians are being encouraged to get involved by helping to stimulate conversations around health promotion to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.

For some strata residents this could be as simple as ensuring they have a range of healthy food options in their cupboards while for others it may mean making an appointment with their GP to address any underlining health issues or ensuring they are walking to work regularly rather than taking the car.

The organisation has also called on Australians to make “the necessary noise” to ensure their community’s health needs are taken into account and prioritised at the local level, including through social media. In addition, it has requested that both men and women who live here share with media their stories as affected communities and impacted patients.

“Good health allows children to learn and adults to earn, helps people escape from poverty, and provides the basis for long-term economic development.”