Ms VAGHELA (Western Metropolitan) (19:34): (1656) My adjournment matter is directed to the Minister for Ambulance Services, Minister for Equality and Minister for Health, the Honourable Martin Foley. This adjournment matter relates to the portfolio responsibilities of health. The Andrews Labor government is supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of young Victorians.
The Andrews Labor government has launched a five-year plan called Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures to make sure that Victorian children and young people stay healthy, strong and well from their earliest years. We want to ensure that all Victorian children get to enjoy a happy and healthy childhood to lay the foundations for lifelong health and wellbeing.
The pandemic has been a reminder of how important health is. The turmoil caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of difficulties for our young population. Consistent with the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2019–2023, Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures has a strong focus on creating supportive environments for healthy eating and active living as well as capturing complementary mental wellbeing initiatives.
Good physical and mental health has long-term benefits for children and young people. It is important to build strong foundations through healthy eating and an active lifestyle. This helps in cognitive and physical development. Being healthy is a lifelong commitment, and the Victorian government is establishing strategic directions to help young people thrive. The action I seek from the minister is to provide me with an update on how this action plan will support the young people of Western Metropolitan Region.