Community participation is essential to creating public health policies and services that are effective, accessible, and responsive to real-world needs. When marginalised voices are included, policies and services become more inclusive and equitable. In South Australia, consumer and community engagement in health has typically occurred within service-specific advisory committees that focus on service improvement rather than system-wide reform. This results in system-led priorities rather than on a community’s concerns. Marginalised voices are excluded.

The People’s Health Voice was established in 2023 to address these gaps. It’s independent and community designed, and has elevated the thoughts of nearly 500 diverse people from across the state, from cities to rural areas. Their concerns about things like a lack of transport acccess and workforce shortages to mental-health distress have been translated into advocacy efforts, policies, and programs. It’s essential that this independent and inclusive entity can continue its work and reach more people.

We call for ongoing and increased investment in the People’s Health Voice so South Australia’s least-heard communities continue to shape health policies and services that genuinely respond to their needs.

Update: SA Health Minister Chris Picton on 6 February announced continued support for the People’s Health Voice.