Asthma Action Plan

If you or your child has asthma, having a clear asthma action plan is one of the most important tools for managing the condition confidently and safely. This simple written plan helps you recognise when asthma is under control, when it’s getting worse, and what to do in an emergency.

What Is an Asthma Action Plan?

An asthma action plan is a written set of instructions developed with your GP.  It outlines:
Your usual asthma medications and how to take them

• How to monitor your symptoms or peak flow readings
• What to do if your symptoms worsen
• What to do during a severe asthma attack
• Emergency contacts and steps

It acts as a guide for you, your family, school staff (if your child has asthma), or carers, so that everyone knows exactly what to do if things change.

Why Do You Need an Asthma Action Plan?

Asthma symptoms can change quickly, and it’s not always obvious when a mild episode could become something more serious. An action plan for asthma gives you a clear step-by-step guide to follow in every situation, from daily care to a potential emergency.

Research shows that people who have an asthma action plan are:

• Less likely to need emergency care
• More likely to take their preventer medication correctly
• More confident in recognising and managing worsening symptoms

For children, it also helps teachers and caregivers respond appropriately and quickly.

Asthma Action Plan for Adults

Even if you’ve had asthma for years, symptoms can change over time. Your asthma management plan should be reviewed at least once a year or if:

• You have had worsening symptoms or more flare-ups
• You’ve changed medication or dosage
• You’ve been to hospital or needed urgent care
• You require tailored support through aged care services

Your GP will help you create a plan that suits your lifestyle, work demands and medication routine, and update it as needed.

Asthma Action Plan for Children

A child’s asthma can look different to an adult’s and may change as they grow. A child asthma action plan is important to help families, teachers, and childcare staff know exactly what signs to watch for and how to respond.

Your child’s plan will cover:

• Their regular medications and when to take them
• What to do if they start coughing, wheezing or feeling short of breath
• What to do during an asthma attack
• When to call 000

We recommend bringing your plan to school and ensuring staff have a copy on file. A spacer and reliever medication should also be kept on hand if recommended.

How Your GP Can Help

Your GP plays a key role in asthma care. They can:

• Confirm or update your asthma diagnosis
• Discuss symptoms and possible triggers
• Help you use your inhalers and spacers correctly
• Create or update your asthma attack action plan
• Review medications and ensure your plan matches your current needs

For those dealing with additional health concerns, such as weight management or hormone-related conditions, your GP can provide holistic support alongside asthma treatment. This includes referrals to our menopause and menstrual disorders clinic if relevant.

We take the time to listen and support you in living well with asthma, whether you have mild symptoms or more severe flare-ups.

Need a New or Updated Plan?

If you don’t have a written asthma action plan or it’s been a while since your last review, book an appointment with your GP. It could be the difference between managing a flare-up early and needing urgent care or learn more about our comprehensive asthma care services.