Recent research co-authored by Associate Professor Veronica Matthews is helping clarify where Australia stands on climate change and health, and where the biggest gaps remain. As part of UCRH’s commitment to rural health research, the study brings together more than a decade of Australian evidence on how climate related interventions are affecting health outcomes.
The paper, titled Australian Research on Climate Change and Health Interventions: A Systematic Mapping Review, was published in the Medical Journal of Australia and draws on 83 peer reviewed studies published between 2008 and 2024. It provides a clear snapshot of what has been studied, what has worked, and what still needs attention.
The review groups existing research into four broad themes, from decarbonising health systems to community level adaptation outside the health sector. Heat related interventions dominate the evidence base, while far fewer studies examine the health impacts of bushfires, floods or drought. Mental health and psychosocial impacts are also underrepresented, despite growing concern about climate related stress and trauma.
Importantly, the mapping review highlights limited research focused on First Nations peoples and minimal stakeholder engagement across many studies. These gaps matter, particularly for rural and regional communities who often experience climate impacts first and most intensely.
By pulling together this wide body of work, the publication supports national efforts to build climate resilient, healthy communities and a more sustainable health system. It also sets a clear agenda for future research that is locally grounded, collaborative and inclusive.
