Multicultural Health Week 2026 (31 August–6 September) brought communities across New South Wales together under this year’s theme, ‘Improving our mental health and wellbeing through physical activity’. Mindgardens Neuroscience Network proudly collaborated with NSW Health to support the initiative, highlighting the essential link between a healthy body and a healthy mind as a central focus of our ongoing collaboration.

The campaign was officially launched at the State Library of NSW by NSW Minister for Health, The Hon Ryan Park MP, and Minister for Mental Health, The Hon Rose Jackson MLC. Mindgardens’ Executive Director, Professor Jackie Curtis AM, and members of the Mindgardens team were honoured to attend the launch event alongside Lisa Woodland, Director of the NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service.

Addressing hidden challenges through integrated care

A centerpiece of the launch event was an inspiring panel discussion facilitated by Lisa Woodland. Professor Curtis joined fellow health leaders and advocates, including:

• Susan Pearce AM, Secretary, NSW Health
• Professor Tracey O’Brien AM, NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO, Cancer Institute NSW
• Sue Advani, Community Representative and founding member of Haathi in the Room Inc.

The panel explored often hidden mental health challenges, and stressed the vital importance of integrating physical and mental healthcare responses. While discussing personalised exercise choices, Professor Curtis shared her lifelong passion for music and movement, highlighting how active engagement helps foster meaningful connections with others.

Finding joy in movement

Bridging physical and mental health through clinical programs

Mindgardens’ participation in Multicultural Health Week directly reflects our broader mission to bridge the gap between physical and mental health care through innovative, evidence-based translational clinical programs, including:

• Keeping the Body in Mind(gardens) – A program that integrates exercise and dietary support to prevent complications and improve physical health outcomes for individuals living with mental health conditions.
• Addi Moves – A program specifically designed to improve access to physical activity and health promotion for people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds.

Continuing the wellbeing journey

While Multicultural Health Week 2026 has formally concluded, Mindgardens remains committed to encouraging everyone to find joy in movement, access culturally appropriate health information, and support one another in leading healthier lives.

To explore Mindgardens’ clinical initiatives, visit the Mindgardens Projects page, or learn more about Multicultural Health Week 2026 Resources.