More SA councils sign up to health scheme

South Australia’s Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle (OPAL) program is continuing to grow, with four more councils joining the initiative to encourage families to lead healthy, active lives.

Starting in September, the Cities of Charles Sturt, Port Adelaide Enfield, Whyalla and the District Council of the Copper Coast will join the six councils already in the State-wide program.

Minister for Health, John Hill said OPAL encourages South Australian communities to live healthier lives.

“A quarter of South Australian children and more than half of the adults are overweight or obese," he said.

“Poor nutrition and a lack of exercise can have a serious effect on the lives of families and their children, as well as the health system and the state’s economy.

“The OPAL program aims to create a supportive community environment and encourage healthy lifestyles to help head off the obesity and chronic disease that can blight people’s lives.

“It is very exciting to have so many areas and people across SA working to achieve healthier outcomes for their children and families.

The $22.3 million OPAL program is funded by the federal, state and local governments.

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