Multicultural Health Week 2026 will encourage people across New South Wales to support their mental health through regular physical activity, with this year’s campaign highlighting simple ways to stay active regardless of age or fitness level.
The annual event will run from 31 August to 6 September, with the theme Improving our mental health and wellbeing through physical activity.
Organisers say the campaign aims to raise awareness of the connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing, while providing practical ideas that can be adopted by people from multicultural communities.
Health experts have long pointed to regular physical activity as an effective way to support both physical and mental health. Activities such as walking, cycling, dancing, yoga, tai chi and community sport have been linked to better sleep, improved mood, increased energy and stronger self esteem. Exercise can also help reduce stress, ease symptoms of anxiety and contribute to lowering the risk of cancer and other chronic health conditions.
The campaign is designed to promote activities that are accessible and enjoyable, recognising that staying active can look different for different people and communities.
Lisa Woodland, Director of the NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service, said the initiative places a strong focus on encouraging practical and achievable lifestyle habits.
“We recognise the importance of supporting mental health and wellbeing within multicultural communities. Being physically active can be a simple and effective way to improve mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
“This can include activities you enjoy, such as walking, tai chi, yoga, dancing, cycling or playing a sport, especially when shared with family and friends.
“This Multicultural Health Week, we highlight how physical activity can improve mental health and wellbeing and offer some simple practical ideas for people from multicultural backgrounds to achieve that.”
The campaign is being delivered through a partnership involving the NSW Ministry of Health’s Centre for Population Health, Mental Health Branch, Social Policy and Health Equity Branch, and Strategic Communication and Engagement Branch. It also includes collaboration with Cancer Institute NSW, the Prevention Education and Research Unit within Western Sydney Local Health District, and multicultural community organisations.
Mental health remains a public health priority across Australia, with health authorities continuing to promote prevention alongside access to treatment and support services. Public awareness campaigns such as Multicultural Health Week are intended to encourage healthy habits while recognising the diverse cultural experiences and needs of communities across the state.
Organisers say multilingual resources, event details and opportunities for community participation will be released in the lead up to the week, with activities expected to take place across New South Wales to support the campaign’s message of improving mental health through movement.
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