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Audit of the Tasmanian Transport‐Related Physical Activity Policy Environment—Lessons for Comprehensive Policy Making

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ISSUE ADDRESSED: Government policy largely determines the transport-related physical activity (TRPA) environment-an environment central to global PA promotion frameworks (e.g., Global Action Plan on Physical Activity). However, little is known about this policy environment-a knowledge gap this study aimed to fill in Tasmania. METHODS: Guided by the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity (CAPPA) framework, the World Health Organisation's Health Enhancing Physical Activity Policy Audit Tool (PAT) Version 2 was contextualised to reflect the study's subnational and TRPA focus (PAT-C). In 2024, a five-person Tasmanian multi-sector project team completed the PAT-C. The audit included 20 policy documents systematically extracted from Tasmanian government websites screened for TRPA relevance. After PAT-C completion, a SWOT analysis underpinned by the CAPPA identified strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the TRPA policy environment. RESULTS: Key strengths were: 9/20 policy documents directly supported TRPA; many agencies/formal groups/mechanisms within/outside of subnational government provide TRPA leadership/advocacy. Main weaknesses were: 11/20 policy documents made no/indirect TRPA reference; certain settings and population groups for TRPA targeting were overlooked across policies; disclosure of consultation and policy cross-referencing was inconsistent; missing were mechanisms to ensure evidence-based policy, a TRPA communication strategy, dedicated funding, specific targets, robust measures and comprehensive TRPA intervention evaluation. Targeted advocacy addressing TRPA-related policy environment omissions was a key opportunity. Fluctuating political commitment and operating environments were important threats. Conclusion and So what: Many gaps in the TRPA environment were identified that, if filled, could support population-level health gain by tackling upstream influences on physical activity.

Source: Health Promotion Journal of Australia

DOI: 10.1002/hpja.70242

Authors: M. J. Sharman, M. Mclaughlin, P. McCue, T. Washington, V. J. Cleland