FatCat,

I agree. It is very encouraging to see some government actions. This highlights the importance of maximising staff health. Not only is it beneficial to the employer, but it is beneficial to the government as it will assist in reduced healthcare costs.

You may be interested in the following blog posts:
- WorkHealth - http://www.fitsense.com.au/fitsense_blog/index.php/2009/04/06/workhealth-workplace-health-in-victoria/

- National Government - http://www.fitsense.com.au/fitsense_blog/index.php/2009/03/06/the-government-encourages-corporate-health-programs/

It's interesting and encouraging to see that Australian Governments are starting to actively encourage, support and fund workplace wellness intiatives. Most recently (January 2009), the Commonwealth Government put in place the National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health which involves the Commonwealth and state/territory governments working in partnership to support initiatives that reduce the risk of chronic disease, including workplace initiatives. And yesterday (5 May 2009) in the ACT Government's Budget it was announced that the ACT Government is going to invest $750,000 per annum in workplace health promotion programs, and $1.7 million over four years in the development and implementation of telephone and web-based coaching for people who already have chronic disease.

With this kind of Commonwealth-State/Territory support it can only be hoped that ALL workplaces start to contribute/invest in the health of their staff.

FitSense Australia is certainly in a good position to provide those organisations that have not previously had a workplace wellness program with advice and programs to suit their workplace health needs.

FATCAT