The City of Mount Gambier Council undertakes activities to prevent disease, manage risk and promote healthy environments to safeguard the health of people in the Mount Gambier community. Councils Strategic Environmental Health Plan 2007-2012 has been developed to provide a clear direction for the delivery of Environmental Health services for the Mount Gambier community.

The environment that people live in has a significant impact upon their health. Over the last century the health of the Australian population overall has improved significantly. People are living longer and in better health. It is estimated that much of the increase in longevity seen in Australia is attributable to environmental factors. The provision of clean water, good food supplies, adequate sewerage systems, waste management, good housing and public infrastructure all help to protect public health.