Healthy Campus Projects

Young adults in higher education are often assumed to face greater mental health risks than their non-student peers, yet direct comparisons are limited. This research examined the mental health and wellbeing of 1,708 young Australians aged 17–25, including 828 university students and 880 non-students. It compared levels of psychological distress, wellbeing, resilience, and loneliness, and […]

Universities are increasingly recognised as key settings for promoting health and wellbeing to enhance academic success, career readiness, and lifelong healthy behaviours. This research conducted a large baseline survey of students at an Australian university to examine health, academic, and social factors influencing wellbeing. The findings were used to inform the university’s new Student Health […]

This research was conducted as a national study exploring how Australian universities translate health and wellbeing policies into practical action. While most institutions endorse the importance of student wellbeing, there is limited understanding of how these commitments are implemented across whole-of-university systems. This research targeted Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Academic) as participants, recognising their central role within […]

Universities play a crucial role in supporting student mental health, however, national consistency in strategy and policy remains limited. This research reviewed 39 Australian universities to assess how well their mental health policies align with Orygen’s Australian University Mental Health Framework, which sets six principles for creating mentally healthy campus environments. These principles emphasise student-informed […]

UniSport Australia is excited to announce Western Sydney University as the newest Australian university to join the global FISU Healthy Campus program, demonstrating its dedication to fostering a vibrant, wellbeing-focused campus life. Western Sydney University’s decision to become a signatory follows in the wake of them ranking number one in the world for four consecutive […]

In August 2025, Murdoch University was awarded Platinum level accreditation in the FISU Healthy Campus program. This accomplishment establishes them as the only university in Western Australia to achieve this status, and the second university Australia-wide.   The FISU Healthy Campus Platinum Level Accreditation designation is a testament to excellence shown across various aspects of […]

RMIT University is helping their students fuel up, get active and connect through their Move & Munch program, an initiative offering free meals, free play, and opportunities to feel part of campus life. Move & Munch has launched across the RMIT Bundoora and City campuses, with the program designed to address food insecurity, promote healthy […]

The University of New England (UNE) is proudly leading the way as a FISU Healthy Campus signatory in Australia, demonstrating its commitment to creating a healthier, more connected community for both students and staff. While the journey is still evolving, UNE has already made a strong impact through initiatives that focus on social and mental […]

A 2024 randomised controlled trial investigated yoga as a mental health intervention for university students, a population who often face high stress and anxiety. The study recruited 129 students, assigning half to a 12-week yoga program (two 60-minute sessions weekly) and half to a control group. Outcomes measured with validated tools showed that the yoga […]

A 2024 longitudinal study found that even brief physical activity breaks during home study can significantly reduce stress. Leisure-time exercise also plays a key role in helping students recover and contributes to their sense of academic achievement. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating movement into daily study routines to build mental resilience and enhance […]