Focus group discussions were conducted with homeless young people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. Despite the support of specialist youth homelessness services, participants reported varying degrees of food insecurity. Barriers to food security and nutrition included poverty, reduced access to fresh foods and a desire for convenience.

This pilot study assessed the feasibility and appeal of existing hand-held mobile technology (iPod or iPad) ‘apps’ as tools for promoting healthy food planning, shopping and eating behaviours among 19 socioeconomically disadvantaged women. A 4-week trial of seven currently available apps showed that selected apps were useable and appealing to participants.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate the perception of cancer risk factors among Western Australian adults. Survey participants were asked to rate protective cancer factors and cancer risk factors to determine the alignment between scientifically established risk factors and the public’s perception of cancer risk factors.

Results from a population-based telephone survey of New South Wales adults were used to identify beliefs predicting participation in bowel cancer screening, as well as groups most likely to hold those beliefs. Education strategies promoting the need for screening in the absence of symptoms and correcting misconceptions about bowel cancer screening among subgroups of the New South Wales population may improve screening rates.

Overconsumption of treats is a contributor to children’s weight problems. This paper explores low socioeconomic parents’ beliefs and behaviours relating to their provision of treat foods for their overweight or obese children. There is considerable scope for improving these parents’ treating behaviours by understanding the relevant factors underpinning their situations and choices.

We explore the impact of Australian policy reforms on health promotion. Thirty-nine interviews revealed workforce perceptions of the impact of policy changes. Health promoters experience contradictory policy and practice environments. This research should assist health promoters to advocate for more accountability in policy implementation to advance comprehensive primary health care.?

A desktop review was conducted to examine the policy approach of all Australian jurisdictions to the possession and use of alcohol, by adults, at government school events when students are present. Inconsistencies between jurisdictions highlights the need for consistent evidence-based guidelines to inform school policies as to whether, when and under which circumstances it is appropriate for schools to promote and/or supply alcohol.

This qualitative study explores perceptions and attitudes of staff and student smokers and key stakeholders prior to the implementation of a complete campus ban on smoking at a large Australian university. Participants generally supported a complete smoke-free policy. Key themes associated with the policy implementation included health implications, stigmatisation and labelling, liberty and enforcement.

A rapid review of the literature was conducted to identify reviews of implementation or dissemination strategies targeting the adoption of school-based tobacco prevention programs. Only one systematic review that included two randomised controlled trials was identified. Such findings suggest the need for more reviews of implementation research in this area.