A new program of free Global Wellness Day events across Australia has been announced, offering locals the chance to reconnect and reset their wellbeing.
The launch follows the release of the Global Flourishing Study (GFS), conducted with Harvard University, which ranked Australia 20th out of 23 countries for overall wellbeing. Despite economic prosperity, Australians – especially younger generations – scored poorly in mental health and life satisfaction.
“These findings are a wake-up call, particularly with our young people,” said Katherine Droga, founder of Well Traveller and Australia’s Global Wellness Day Ambassador. “Flourishing isn’t just about income or access – it’s about connection, support and meaning.”
The GFS surveyed more than 200,000 people across 23 countries over five years, exploring what makes a life well lived. Flourishing was measured across six areas: happiness and life satisfaction, mental and physical health, meaning and purpose, character and virtue, social relationships, and financial stability.
While Australians achieved an overall score of 7.02 out of 10, younger people in particular scored lower, indicating they are struggling most with wellbeing. In contrast, countries like Indonesia, Mexico and the Philippines topped the rankings, reflecting how strong cultural ties and family connections can boost wellbeing, even when material resources are limited.
To help turn the tide, Australia will host its most comprehensive Global Wellness Day celebration yet on Saturday 14 June, with all events free to attend. Well Traveller is leading the program, which features activities across the country designed to inspire wellbeing in all its forms – from yoga in the park and forest bathing to sound healing and equine wellness.
Sydney
In Sydney, three flagship experiences will take place in the Royal Botanic Gardens. ‘Your Morning Ritual On Sydney Harbour’ blends gentle movement and gratitude practices overlooking the Harbour, led by Paul von Bergen of Billabong Retreat.
‘Awaken Well: Small Habits, Big Shifts’ sees world surfing champion Layne Beachley and wellbeing expert Tess Brouwer sharing insights on daily wellbeing practices.
‘Healing Herbs: Harness the Lifeforce of Nature for Wellbeing’ explores the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Herb Garden with Jurlique’s Cherie Hutchinson.
Byron Bay
‘The Wellness Trail’ at Elements of Byron offers immunity tea, botanical product sampling and a guided rainforest walk.
Adelaide Hills
Visitors can join a 90-minute Jurlique Farm Tour or enjoy acoustic music with horses in nature at Walk Sublime.
Margaret River
In Western Australia’s Margaret River, a guided forest bathing experience reconnects participants with the natural world.
Mornington Peninsula
On Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, ‘Hot Springs Yoga’ combines mindful movement with geothermal soaking.
Tasmania
Tasmania’s ‘Wild Wellness Pod Eve Retreat’ blends guided breathwork, an optional icy plunge, journaling and stargazing around a firepit.
Well Traveller has partnered with Jurlique for Global Wellness Day, with Jurlique Spas offering complimentary massages, consultations or misting experiences to mark the brand’s 40th anniversary.
Katherine Droga, a leader in wellness travel and tourism, said she hopes Global Wellness Day will spark a wider movement. “As a mother and wellness advocate, I’ve seen the power of early wellbeing habits,” she said. “If we can model that for young people – to pause, to move, to breathe and get into nature – we’re setting them up for lifelong health.”
To help people connect with these experiences year-round, Well Traveller has also launched a new ‘What’s On’ Wellness Calendar – a searchable hub of wellbeing events and experiences across Australia.
“Global Wellness Day events are now live on the new Well Traveller What’s On Calendar,” said Droga. “We expect these free events to book out quickly, so wellness seekers should jump on now to secure their spot.”
Free tickets for Global Wellness Day on Saturday 14 June 2025 are available at welltraveller.com.au/whats-on-in-australia.
