Background

Effective health communication has been a significant challenge for governments, health and community service providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Australia, the communication response has lacked clarity, coherence and coordination. This has impacted on people’s ability to access, understand and apply health information and advice. It been particularly challenging for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who live in Melbourne’s west.

To assist in future planning and recovery efforts in the region, HealthWest Partnership engaged Trezona Consulting Group to undertake a review of available literature to identify the elements of an effective health communication system. This review draws upon literature from COVID-19 and other pandemic or emergency responses. The report provides detailed recommendations for regions, governments and local implementers, including considerations for engagement with culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

At a regional level the review highlights the need for:
• regional partnerships and coordination mechanisms;
• regional communication and community engagement strategies;
• integration of regional systems into overarching government coordination structures;
• involvement of local community leaders an members; and
• regional training, development, monitoring and evaluation.

In 2022 HealthWest will continue engaging members and others throughout the region to explore how the findings of this report can be used to inform future planning and recovery efforts.