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Option 5: Equity and health

Why do inequities exist in the health of Australians?

There are many reasons why health inequities exist within Australian society. Research suggests there is a strong link between sociocultural factors and level of health. These factors include race, gender, class, occupation, socioeconomic status and ethnicity. They strongly relate to the ways in which we deal with the day to day events in our lives.

Health, wellness and illness are the by-products of the specific ways in which society is organised. In order to critically examine health and equity from a social perspective, we must look beyond the facts and figures, beyond the health care system and medical model, and into the social context of people’s lives. An understanding and appreciation of the following will help us to determine why health inequities exist in Australian society.

Social justice principles

Social justice is a term that is used to describe any action that aims to reduce the social inequities that exist within society. It is comprised of the three key principles of diversity, equity and supportive environments.

Factors that create health inequities

There are a range of factors that contribute to the various health inequities that exist within Australia. These factors often have greater impact on certain population groups within a community. It is important that the inequities are identified and addressed in order to improve the health of all Australians.