See all 17 Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs

What is SDG 3 Good health and wellbeing about?

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

Good health is a human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development. Reporting on progress toward SDG 3, the UN states that ‘we are spending an astonishing amount of money and resources on treating illnesses that are surprisingly easy to prevent.’ These illnesses most commonly affect people living in poverty who lack access to basic medical resources, toilets and a healthy diet.

Common conditions like respiratory illness, heart disease and diabetes also make people more prone to other health issues. For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Māori, and Tagata Pasifika (Pacific Island) peoples living in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, these conditions occur more frequently due to historical inequities.

There are clear links between poor health and our environment. Air pollution contributes to respiratory illness for people living in cities. Marginalised people living in densely populated areas or near industrial sites are often most affected. While Australia and New Zealand produce food on a massive scale, food quality and access remain poor for many. With a growing global population, our food systems must improve to guarantee good nutrition for all, while protecting our fresh water and biodiversity.

What can a business do to influence SDG 3?

Businesses can directly contribute to SDG 3 by supporting safe working conditions and access to health services for employees and their families. Businesses are making gains here, allowing for greater flexibility, and providing psychological support for workers. Changing patterns of life, work and leisure have a significant impact on health. Working conditions should be safe, stimulating, satisfying and enjoyable.

How to make progress with SDG 3

Make sure working conditions help employees stay healthy and safe
Provide conditions that allow a good balance between work and leisure
Offer policies that promote health such as paid parental leave and vaccinations
Provide psychological support for employees
Partner with healthcare NGOs and public clinics to raise awareness and increase access to targeted health services for employees and their families
Allow greater flexibility such as hybrid working

How businesses can benefit

Providing health services and flexible working conditions will make you an attractive workplace
Healthy employees who live in healthy communities are more productive
Improve your licence to operate by doing good

Examples

Goodman Property promotes SDG 3 by targeting three main areas: children and youth, community and community health, and food rescue and environment. They sponsor charities that work in areas like cancer research and care (Australian Cancer Research Institute, Auckland Starship Hospital), mental health (Black Dog Institute), and housing and aid for people in adversity (Generous and Grateful).

Australian engineering company Cimic Group promotes wellbeing for all at all ages by building and operating infrastructure (including hospitals and health facilities, community aquatic and recreation hubs) and transport solutions (including pedestrian and cycle paths).