Health and wellbeing are deeply interconnected.
When children and young people have access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, safe environments, and supportive communities, they are better equipped to learn, develop, and thrive. Good health enables them to build strong relationships, engage in education, and participate fully in their communities.
At ARACY, we recognise that wellbeing is more than just the absence of illness. It is about ensuring every child and young person has the physical, mental, emotional, and social resources they need to flourish. That is why The Nest, Australia’s wellbeing framework for children and young people, includes healthy as one of its six interconnected domains.
Preventing and Controlling Disease to Support Wellbeing
Preventing and controlling disease is critical to improving the wellbeing of children and young people. By addressing the social and environmental factors that contribute to poor health—such as poverty, housing insecurity, and limited access to healthcare—we can reduce the risk of chronic conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders. Early intervention, health promotion, and equitable access to services not only help prevent illness but also support children and young people in managing existing health conditions, ensuring they can lead full and healthy lives.
The Role of Research in Driving Change
At ARACY, we are committed to utilising and supporting research to drive better health and wellbeing outcomes. By leveraging robust evidence, collaborating with experts, and amplifying the voices of children and young people, we ensure that policies and programs are informed by the best available knowledge. This evidence-based approach helps identify what works, strengthen prevention strategies, and create lasting change in the systems that support children and young people.
A Shared Understanding of Wellbeing
To support a common understanding of wellbeing, ARACY partnered with Emerging Minds to create a dynamic and engaging animation that brings the definition of wellbeing to life. This video introduces The Nest, providing a clear and consistent framework that helps eliminate barriers to understanding and collaboration. When we share a common language around wellbeing, we can work together more effectively to create programs, services, and policies that improve health and wellbeing outcomes for all children and young people.
