The SDGs are a set of 17 global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. They aim to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030. The goals are interconnected, meaning progress in one area supports progress in others. They guide government, community and organisational actions to create a fairer, healthier and more sustainable world.

Aim: Ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all people, at all ages.

Key Features:

• Reduce maternal and child mortality
• End epidemics (e.g. HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria)
• Achieve universal health coverage, including access to medicines and vaccines
• Reduce non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment
• Strengthen mental health services
• Improve road safety and reduce injuries
• Address health inequalities across all communities

Australian Example: Free vaccination programs, mental health initiatives (e.g. Beyond Blue) and Indigenous health strategies (e.g. Closing the Gap).

Aim: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Key Features:

• Access to free, quality primary and secondary education
• Equal access to affordable tertiary and vocational education
• Improve literacy and numeracy for all youth and adults
• Eliminate gender disparities and ensure access for marginalised groups
• Promote education for sustainable development, including health and human rights

Australian Example: School-based health and movement education; equity programs for students in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.

Aim: Reduce inequality within and among countries.

Key Features:

• Promote social, economic, and political inclusion for all
• Ensure equal access to education, healthcare, employment and social protection
• Address the needs of marginalised groups (e.g. people with disability, Indigenous communities, migrants)
• Improve regulation of institutions and ensure non-discriminatory laws and policies

Australian Example: Closing the Gap Campaign to reduce health, education and economic inequalities between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.

Aim: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

Key Features:

• Improve urban planning to reduce overcrowding and health risks
• Ensure access to green spaces, public transport and affordable housing
• Reduce urban exposure to air pollution and climate-related health risks
• Support age-friendly and accessible environments for all abilities and ages

Australian Example: Liveable Cities urban planning and health initiative that works with local councils to make cities healthier and more sustainable for all residents.