A new strategy to address childhood obesity is planned to begin in 2027, but health experts say more needs to be done in the meantime.

A Murdoch Children’s Research Institute 2025 study revealed half of children and adolescents in Australia are predicted to be overweight or obese by 2050.

The multi-pronged strategy ‘GENheart’, led by MCRI, has been introduced over the next 10 years to target childhood sleep, exercise, diet, and heart health.

The strategy will involve four trials relying on data from 60,000 children and their families in WA.

While this strategy is expected to provide long term benefits, existing initiatives are already working to address childhood obesity through early intervention.

Curtin University Sport, Exercise and Physiologist Associate Professor Kagan Ducker says early intervention programs are crucial in developing fundamental skills and building confidence to engage in physical activity at a young age.

He says school curriculums are a great way to introduce physical exercise early.

“Schools like Wesley and Penhros College have physical exercise well incorporated into their curriculum which improves students’ access and enjoyment,” he says.

Research from The Kids Research Group Institute reveals young children are not exceeding the recommended three hours of physical activity daily. With most children not even getting 60 minutes of vigorous play per day.

Local kids’ fitness groups are working to decrease childhood obesity by introducing children to sports starting when they are toddlers. Ready Steady Go Kids is a physio-designed program helping to develop children’s motor skills and passion for exercise long term.

Experts say early interventions like Ready Steady Go Kids are vital as they expose children to exercise at a young age.

UWA student Tara Gilich, who is completing a Master’s degree in teaching in health and physical education, supports this.

“Promoting habits and exercise at a young age is essential as it’s the most influential stage,” she says.  

However, exercise is only part of the problem.

Curtin University Discipline Lead for Nutrition and Dietetics Professor Deborah Kerr says the cost-of-living pressures are making it challenging for families to afford healthy food options.

“Families are facing the dilemma of how to eat healthy vs cheap takeaway foods,” she says.

Professor Kerr says 95 per cent of children are not eating enough fruit and vegetables, and 17 per cent of children over eight aren’t doing enough physical activity.

She also raises concerns about the increased intake of high sugar beverages taking over healthier alternatives like milk and calcium drinks which help bone health later in life.

“68 per cent of teenagers have sweets and beverages at least weekly, causing issues because it’s displacing healthier options,” she says.

Professor Kerr says more public health messaging could be done, along with changes to legislation to help create a healthier environment for children and families.

Perth Paediatric Dietitian Catherine Jones says to introduce healthy eating habits early.

“Enjoy meals together in a screen-free zone, swap out sugary drinks for water and for full satisfied tummies, aim for half a plate of vegetables or salad in/with meals,” she says.