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WA Launches Free Health Coaching Program

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. 28/wa-launches-free-health-coaching-program.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 1:06 GMT by The West Australian
      Locale: Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

Perth, Western Australia - January 28th, 2026 - The West Australian government today announced promising early results from its newly launched "Better Health WA" program, a free health coaching service aimed at empowering residents to adopt healthier lifestyles. The initiative, available to all adults across the state, offers personalized support via phone and video conferencing, focusing on habit modification and preventative healthcare. This comes at a crucial time, as Australia continues to grapple with rising rates of chronic disease linked to lifestyle factors.

While the initial announcement focused on helping West Australians "kick bad habits" - specifically mentioning diet, exercise, and smoking cessation - program leads are emphasizing a broader scope. Better Health WA isn't simply about eliminating negative behaviors, but proactively building positive ones. The service functions on the principle that sustainable lifestyle change requires individualized support, acknowledging that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach rarely succeeds.

"We recognised a gap in accessible preventative health resources," explained Health Minister Amber Pike during a press conference earlier today. "Too often, people know what they should be doing for their health - eating better, exercising more - but lack the support and guidance to actually implement those changes. Better Health WA provides that crucial bridge."

The program differs from traditional healthcare models by placing significant emphasis on coaching rather than clinical intervention. Accredited health coaches work with participants to set realistic goals, develop personalized action plans, and provide ongoing encouragement and accountability. This approach aligns with a growing body of evidence supporting the effectiveness of health coaching in managing chronic conditions and improving overall wellbeing.

How Does it Work?

Registration is straightforward via the dedicated website ([ https://www.betterhealthwa.gov.au/services/health-coaching ]). Upon signing up, individuals undergo a brief assessment to determine their needs and goals. They are then matched with a suitable health coach, and a schedule of regular phone or video calls is established. Coaching sessions typically last between 30 and 60 minutes.

Importantly, Better Health WA offers both individual and group coaching options. Group sessions, a relatively new addition to the program based on positive feedback from early trials, provide a supportive community environment where participants can share experiences, learn from each other, and stay motivated. The program is proving particularly popular with individuals in rural and remote areas, where access to traditional health services can be limited. The telehealth format overcomes geographical barriers and ensures equitable access to support across the state.

Early Results and Future Expansion

The government has been cautiously optimistic about the program's early performance. Preliminary data indicates a statistically significant increase in participants' self-reported levels of physical activity and a reduction in unhealthy dietary habits. While larger-scale, long-term studies are planned, these initial findings suggest that the program is on the right track.

However, some challenges remain. Maintaining participant engagement over the long term is a key concern. Program managers are exploring strategies to enhance retention rates, including personalized follow-up reminders, access to online resources, and integration with existing community health programs. There's also discussion around expanding the scope of the coaching to include areas like stress management and financial wellbeing, recognizing the interconnectedness of these factors with overall health.

Minister Pike hinted at potential future expansion of the Better Health WA program, potentially including partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. "We envision a future where preventative health is seamlessly integrated into everyday life for all West Australians," she stated. The government is actively seeking feedback from participants and stakeholders to refine the program and maximize its impact. The program stands as a significant investment in the future health and wellbeing of Western Australia.