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Climate Health Faculty

Tracks
Track 3
Thursday, July 24, 2025
1:40 PM - 2:00 PM
Ballroom

Overview

Presenter: Aletha Ward PhD., MBA., BNurs., R.N., GAICD. FACN. MAPNA


Speaker

Agenda Item Image
Dr Aletha Ward FACN
Climate health researcher and policy specialist
University Of Queensland

Climate Health Faculty (session 1)

1:40 PM - 2:00 PM

Abstract

As climate change accelerates the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, nurses are increasingly positioned as leaders in health emergency preparedness and community resilience. This interactive session runs continuously from 1:40 pm to 3:15 pm and is designed as an immersive experience that builds throughout, combining case-based learning, reflective discussion, and scenario-based problem-solving. For participants to gain the full benefit of the session and contribute meaningfully to the evolving discussions, attendance for the full duration is strongly encouraged.

Rather than presenting fixed solutions, the session offers a collaborative environment where nurses can apply their expertise, critically evaluate preparedness gaps, and co-develop context-specific strategies for action. Together, participants will examine the intersection of nursing practice and climate resilience, generating practical insights for both local implementation and broader systems thinking.

Key topics include:
• Integrating climate resilience into nursing practice
• Mobilising health services to support vulnerable populations
• Strengthening preparedness through applied problem-solving and workforce adaptability

Relevant across all sectors—primary care, acute, aged care, and remote settings—this session provides a timely and practical opportunity for nurses to engage in climate leadership and create solutions for a changing world.

Biography

Dr Aletha Ward is a climate health researcher and policy specialist, leading the national nursing policy response in climate health. Aletha is the chair of the Climate Health Faculty for the Australian College of Nursing (ACN), Ambassador for Climate Action Nurses, Non-executive board member for Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA), the climate health representative for APNA, and the pillar co-lead for the advocacy pill for the Planetary Health Collaborative for Nurses and Midwives. Aletha co-founded and served as the inaugural chair of Climate Action Nurses and received Fellowship from the ACN in 2023 for her contribution to climate health. Aletha was called as an expert witness in a senate hearing on climate change and intergenerational equity in 2024. Aletha is passionate about raising the voice of nurses and midwives across Australia, driving impactful change.
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