Western Sydney continues to face some of the highest rates of overweight and obesity in Australia, with half of the population above a healthy weight and at risk of chronic disease.
Western Sydney residents are twice as likely to develop diabetes compared to those living in Sydney’s Eastern or Northern suburbs—impacting especially Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Asian, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander and Indian subcontinent communities.
World Obesity Day 2026, 4 March, is a timely reminder that obesity is a systemic issue influenced by environment, access, and inequality, not individual failure.
Health professionals across primary care, community health and allied health settings are uniquely positioned to influence obesity prevention and management.
Practical Tips for Health Professionals
- Use person‑centred, stigma‑free language
Avoid labels like “obese” or “overweight”. Instead, use terms such as “above a healthy weight” and focus on behaviours rather than appearance. This approach helps reduce shame and encourages open communication.
- Assess weight concerns methodically
Monitor BMI, growth charts (for children), waist circumference, and lifestyle behaviours – avoid relying solely on visual assessment.
- Tailor dietary and activity recommendations
GPs should refer patients to a dietitian for nutrition support and to an exercise physiologist or physiotherapist for physical activity guidance, to ensure individually tailored, professionally supervised plans that consider cultural, financial, environmental, and psychosocial barriers.
- Encourage small, sustainable lifestyle changes
The 2kg Challenge emphasises approachable steps:
- Check in with eating habits
- Choose enjoyable ways to move
- Explore digital tools and community support
- Plan for long‑term maintenance
These actions help patients feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.
- Provide ongoing follow‑up
Regular reviews, SMS reminders, coaching and referrals to relevant allied health and trusted programs can significantly improve outcomes.
- Address broader determinants of health
Acknowledge that cost‑of‑living pressures, limited access to fresh foods, cultural norms and environmental barriers (e.g., lack of shade for walking) impact patients’ ability to change behaviours.
Local Initiatives
A free 8‑week program supporting adults at risk of type 2 diabetes through:
- Text and email tips
- Short educational videos
- Healthy eating guidance
- Community support groups
- Tools for tracking progress
WentWest's Primary Care Support
WentWest works with GPs and health services across Western Sydney to:
- Support the 2kg Challenge in general practices
- Encourage early detection and prevention workflows
- Facilitate chronic disease management planning
Access Primary Care Support for Chronic Condition Management here