Call for Innovation and Stronger Health Systems on International Self-Care Day

24 July 2025 –

Self-care is the cornerstone of good health – but it doesn’t happen in isolation.

On International Self-Care Day, Consumer Healthcare Products Australia (CHP Australia) hosted its second Annual Roundtable Lunch in Sydney, bringing together health leaders, innovators, and policymakers to explore how Australia can empower people to take charge of their health, supported by regulatory systems which keep pace with rapid healthcare innovation.

Keynote speaker Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM, Australia’s former Chief Scientist, inspired attendees with her address “Beyond the Horizon: Healthcare’s Next Frontier in the Age of AI, Quantum and Personalised Medicine – Is Australia Ready and Able?” Dr Foley explored how emerging technologies are transforming healthcare and asked whether Australia is prepared – technologically, ethically, and structurally – to embrace this new frontier.

Professor Tony Lawler, Deputy Secretary of the Health Products Regulation Group at the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, shared timely insights on upcoming TGA reforms and the importance of regulatory harmonisation in enabling innovation and keeping consumers safe.

The event highlighted the critical role of self-care in a prevention-focused, sustainable health system – and why strong regulation and health literacy are essential to support it.

“We celebrate International Self-Care Day each year because self-care isn’t just about individual choices – it’s about enabling systems that make those choices safe, informed, and accessible,” said Judy Stenmark, Chief Executive Officer of CHP Australia. “As the voice of the consumer healthcare products industry in Australia, we are committed to ensuring Australians can confidently manage their health in partnership with a robust and innovative health system, where industry, healthcare professionals, policy makers and the regulator work together to empower consumers.”

The event underscored CHP Australia’s commitment to advancing self-care and strengthening partnerships between industry, government, and communities to support healthier, more resilient Australians.

CHP Australia thanks our speakers, members, and guests for marking International Self-Care Day with such a future-focused and meaningful conversation.