ACT Government Health and Community Services

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Official page for the ACT Health and Community Services Directorate.

Keeping you informed about Canberra’s public health system and the community services that promote healthy lives. House Rules:
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02/11/2026

Today marks one year since voluntary assisted dying became available in the ACT.

Voluntary assisted dying is one end-of-life option available to eligible Canberrans, alongside palliative care and other supports.

Over the past year, the ACT's voluntary assisted dying framework has operated with legislated safeguards and independent oversight through the ACT Voluntary Assisted Dying Oversight Board.

We acknowledge the patients, families, carers and health professionals who have been involved with the service.

Information and support are available through the voluntary assisted dying Care Navigation Service, operated by Canberra Health Services, for individuals, families, carers and health professionals seeking information about voluntary assisted dying.

Learn more about voluntary assisted dying in the ACT at act.gov.au.

If this topic raises issues for you or someone you know, support is available through Lifeline Canberra on 13 11 14 or Griefline on 1300 845 745.

We recognise that people hold diverse views on this topic and ask that discussion remains respectful and compassionate.

[Image description: Graphic marking one year of voluntary assisted dying in the ACT.]

02/11/2026

2017? 🤔
2018? 🤔
2019? 🤔

When was that appointment again?

30/10/2026

High pollen counts and possible worsening weather conditions may increase the risk of thunderstorm asthma tomorrow (Saturday 31 October) in the ACT.

If you’ve ever had asthma or hay fever or if you sneeze or wheeze during pollen season and are heading outdoors on Saturday, be prepared and protect yourself.

✅Monitor for asthma and hay fever symptoms.
✅Take medications as prescribed and carry them with you.
✅Avoid being outdoors during the storm and gusty winds that come first.
✅If your asthma symptoms are not relieved by your usual treatment, seek urgent medical advice.

We will continue to monitor the risk of thunderstorm asthma over the weekend and let the ACT community know, via our page, if the risk increases.

Thunderstorm asthma events are rare.

If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and stay indoors while waiting for an ambulance to arrive.

Find out more www.act.gov.au/environment/air-quality/pollen-levels-and-your-health

29/10/2026

Avoid becoming a Halloween treat for mozzies 👻

👕 Cover up with loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and covered shoes
🦟 Use an effective mosquito repellant and reapply regularly
💧 Empty standing water around your home where mosquitoes breed
🌅 Avoid going outside at dusk and dawn when mozzies are most active
🏠 Stop mozzies from getting inside with insect screens on doors and windows

More tips in our comments below 👇

[Image description: Child in a ghost costume outdoors with a checklist showing mosquito bite prevention tips, including light-coloured clothing, covered shoes and repellent].

27/10/2026

The National Multicultural Festival couldn't happen without volunteers. 💛

Every year, hundreds of Canberrans give their time to help create the welcoming, vibrant atmosphere that makes the Festival so special.

We're now looking for volunteers to join the team from 5-7 February 2027 and be part of the magic behind Canberra's biggest community celebration. ✨

As a volunteer, you'll receive training and support, festival merchandise and a food voucher. Even better, you'll build new connections, develop new skills and experience this incredible event from the inside.

Whether you're volunteering for the first time or returning for another year, there's a place for you on the team.

👉 Applications close 1 December 2026.
Find out more http://www.multiculturalfestival.com.au/get-involved/volunteers

[Image description: A photo of two volunteers working at the Multicultural Festival. They wear blue official t-shirts and lanyards and smile to camera. Text over the photo says 'Volunteer applications open'.]

26/10/2026

Children's Week has been full of fun at Canberra's Child and Family Centres! 👏

Families recently enjoyed a visit from Magic Dan and from the famously cute-but-a-floof Hephner at our Learn, Giggle and Grow playgroups. And the Multicultural Playgroup were captivated by balloon storytelling with Chloe, while others shared a trip to the Zoo! 🦙

There's more to come too, with the Koori Playgroup heading to Questacon to spark those inquisitive minds.

But there is a lot more than playgroups on offer at the Child and Family Centres in Gungahlin, Tuggeranong and West Belconnen.

You’ll find a big range of practical support for families. Such as parenting workshops, child development checks through the Child Development Service, referrals to local services, and support for expecting and new parents.

Drop in any weekday from 9am to 5pm. No appointment needed and it’s free! 👈

Find out more: www.act.gov.au/childandfamilycentres

[Image description: A group of children watch a woman twisting a balloon into a shape.]

24/10/2026

⚠️Public Health Alert: Possible thunderstorm asthma event forecast for the ACT on Sunday 25 October 2026⚠️

High pollen levels, windy conditions and forecasted storms on Sunday 25 October has increased the risk of thunderstorm asthma today across the ACT and surrounding region today.

While thunderstorm asthma can affect anyone, people with asthma or hay fever may be at higher risk.

If you’ve ever had asthma or hay fever, or if you sneeze or wheeze during pollen season, make a plan to stay safe.

✅ Monitor asthma and hay fever symptoms.
✅ Take medications as prescribed and carry them with you.
✅ Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
✅ Avoid being outdoors during gusty winds.
✅ Turn off evaporative coolers and air conditioners that draw air from outside before and during storms.

Thunderstorm asthma events are rare. The increased risk means a thunderstorm asthma event is possible. It does not mean an event will occur.

If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and stay indoors while waiting for an ambulance to arrive.

Find out more www.act.gov.au/environment/air-quality/pollen-levels-and-your-health

More information about this alert can be found at: https://www.act.gov.au/health/public-health-alerts/public-health-alert-pages/public-health-alert-thunderstorm-asthma-event

22/10/2026

Different puffers for different seasons 💨

Spring in Canberra means backyard barbecues, everyone rushing to that big green warehouse, pollen... and a timely reminder to check your asthma treatment plan.

If you have asthma:
• carry your medications with you
• review your asthma action plan
• check your medications are up to date
• talk to your GP if your symptoms aren't well controlled.

A quick check now could make a big difference later. Make sure you know where your medication is, that it's within date, and that you know how to use it correctly.

Some people may not know that they have asthma. Symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath are sometimes mistaken for other things.

If you have these symptoms, don't ignore them. Speak with a GP.

If your asthma symptoms aren't relieved by your usual treatment, seek urgent medical advice. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).

See our comments for more asthma first aid information and resources 👇

[Image description: Graphic titled "Canberra’s puffers" comparing the seasons: a runner for summer, a hot air balloon for autumn, a puffer jacket for winter, and asthma inhalers for spring.]

18/10/2026

On War Widows’ Day, we recognise the remarkable women who have carried the weight of service and loss.

We honour their strength, resilience and the sacrifices made alongside those who served.

[Image description: Close up photo of elderly hands holding a vintage framed wedding photo.]

Address

Bowes Street
Canberra, ACT
2606

Website

https://www.act.gov.au/directorates-and-agencies/health-and-community-services-directorate, https://www.act.gov.au/act-g

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