Australian children are among the least active in the world. A recent study found that only 18% of Australian children aged 5–17 years are getting the 60 minutes of daily physical activity they need to lead a healthy lifestyle. Throughout 2021 and 2022 the Commissioner for Children and Young People engaged children and young people on their views on physical activity and what they think being physically healthy involves. There was significant consciousness around health issues relating to young people, including the ‘obesity epidemic’ and ‘emerging mental health crisis’. These issues have been amplified and heard loud and clear by young people. As such they were acutely aware of the need for greater physical activity. However, as they clearly articulated, the barriers to improved physical activity are real.
This brief shares the perspectives of children and young people on physical wellbeing and recommendations to engage in healthy practices.