Identifying research needs and building research capacity towards heat–health action in Australia
This case report documents insights from the Heat & Health Policy–Research Workshop held in February 2026 as part of the HEAL‑funded project Identifying research needs and building research capacity towards heat–health action in Australia.
Convening 56 participants from research, government, emergency management, health, planning and non‑government organisations nationwide, the workshop explored how research and policy can work together to reduce heat‑related health harms. Through presentations, polling and facilitated breakout discussions, participants identified shared challenges, priority evidence gaps and opportunities to strengthen cross‑sector coordination.
The report highlights the urgent need for faster and more localised heat–health data, stronger leadership and governance, upstream action on housing and the built environment, and clear, action‑oriented public communication. It also outlines how co‑designed, policy‑relevant research can better support equitable, coordinated and sustained heat–health action across Australia.
Download our reports below:
