Tasmanians want to be healthier, but new insights from St Lukes show that many people face barriers that have little to do with motivation and everything to do with support, environment and circumstance.
The leading not-for-profit health and wellness organisation engaged in more than 150 one-on-one interviews with Tasmanians, to better understand what “being healthy” means and what helps – or holds people back – from living healthier lives.
St Lukes Chief Community Engagement Officer Shoshana Wall said the strongest message was that social connection is fundamental to people becoming healthier – and maintaining healthy habits.
“Tasmanians told us they need the support, encouragement and accountability that come from social connections in order to take ownership of their health and wellbeing,” she said.
“While people recognise their health is important, many admitted that meaningful change often doesn’t happen until a crisis or scare forces the issue.
“Social connection is the missing piece. When people feel supported and encouraged, they’re far more likely to take that first step, and keep going.
“Accountability matters too – we’re far more likely to show up for a team, a class or a training partner than for ourselves.”
Practical barriers also came through clearly: cost pressures, lack of time, regional access issues, weather, and the influence of family and friends’ lifestyles. These factors shape whether healthy choices feel possible day-to-day.
Ms Wall said these insights are directly shaping St Lukes’ wellness hub programs in Launceston, Hobart and soon Devonport.
“The truth is most of us know we need to be healthier; we just need to act on it. Stronger social networks require investment in places and programs that bring people together.”
One example is St Lukes weekly Run and Walk Club, where participants build confidence through coaching and connection. Among them is Kathy Fela, who is blind.
Kathy is a living example of what can happen when you have the right people in your corner – encouragement, support and accountability – to overcome barriers and build healthy habits.
“Being blind has made things tricky, but it hasn’t stopped me doing the things I enjoy and trying news things,” Ms Fela said.
“What I found with the Run Club is they’re fully inclusive, and they don’t let me get away with anything. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Ms Wall said the community insights will underpin St Lukes’ submission to the Tasmanian Government’s 20 Year Preventive Health Strategy, now open for consultation.
“Prevention must be prioritised. This strategy needs genuine, whole-of-government commitment across housing, transport, education and planning to remove the barriers that hold people back from living a healthier life,” she said.
“St Lukes’ vision is to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet. That means shifting our focus from treating illness to preventing it and building the environments that help people stay well in the first place.
“Tasmania is at a pivotal moment and we’re encouraging all Tasmanians to have their say. This is a rare chance to shape the future of health in our state.”
Public consultation on the strategy is open until February 27 at www.health.tas.gov.au/20-year-preventive-health-strategy.