World Asthma Day: why asthma action plans matter more than ever

World Asthma Day, to be held this year on Tuesday 5 May, is a timely reminder of the importance of asthma awareness and the practical steps that can help prevent serious flare-ups. One of the most effective tools available is a written Asthma Action Plan.

Asthma affects more than 2.7 million Australians and remains one of the country’s most common chronic health conditions. While many people manage symptoms successfully, asthma can worsen quickly, making preparation essential.

According to Asthma Australia, every person with asthma, regardless of age or symptom severity, should have a written Asthma Action Plan developed with their doctor.
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What is an Asthma Action Plan?

An Asthma Action Plan is a personalised written guide that outlines how to manage asthma every day and what to do if symptoms begin to worsen.

It is designed to help people recognise early warning signs, respond quickly and know when urgent medical help is needed.

Plans typically include:

• daily asthma management and medication use
• what to do when symptoms increase
• how to respond during a severe flare-up
• when to seek urgent or emergency care
• contact and medical details.

For children, plans may also identify common triggers such as exercise, smoke, pollen, dust or poor air quality.

Why asthma action plans matter

Asthma Action Plans are widely recognised as an important part of effective asthma management.

They can help people:

• prevent and control symptoms
• recognise worsening asthma early
• reduce reliance on reliever medication
• respond confidently during flare-ups
• avoid unnecessary emergency presentations.

For families and carers, having a clear written plan can reduce uncertainty and support faster decision-making when symptoms change.

Why this matters for ECEC services and schools

For early childhood education and care (ECEC) services and schools, current Asthma Action Plans are especially important.

Children may not always be able to explain symptoms clearly, and asthma episodes can escalate quickly.

Having an up-to-date plan on file can help educators and staff understand:

• a child’s triggers
• medication requirements
• early signs of distress
• when reliever medication is needed
• when to call parents or emergency services.

It can also support consistency of care across different educators, shifts and settings.

Who should have one?

Asthma Australia advises that everyone with asthma should have an Asthma Action Plan, including:

• adults
• teenagers
• children
• people with mild or occasional symptoms.

Children’s plans should also be shared with those responsible for their care, including:

• schools
• ECEC services
• sports coaches
• grandparents and relatives
• babysitters and carers.

Where to keep your plan

Easy access matters, particularly in an emergency.

Many families choose to keep their plan:

• on the fridge
• with medication
• saved on a phone
• shared with their child’s school or service
• with regular carers.

When should plans be updated?

Asthma Action Plans should be reviewed regularly with a doctor.

Asthma Australia recommends reviewing plans:

• every six months for children
• every 12 months for adults
• whenever symptoms or medication change.

A small document that can make a big difference

Asthma Action Plans are simple, practical and potentially life-saving.

As World Asthma Day approaches, families, educators and workplaces may wish to use the occasion to check whether plans are current, accessible and understood by everyone involved.

When asthma symptoms change suddenly, having a plan in place can make all the difference.