For the first time, the McGowan Government will work with the World Surf League and Surfing WA to support Western Australian's mental health and wellbeing at surfing events over the next two years.
The surfing events include one of the most watched international events on the World Surf League's Championship Tour calendar, the Margaret River Pro.
State Government funding will be used by these surfing organisations to strengthen community mental health and wellbeing.
Staff will also receive mental health first aid training, and high-profile athlete event ambassadors will be present to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.
"Awareness around mental health is something that is really important to WSL and our athletes which is why this partnership with Healthway is such a special one for us," said WSL APAC President Andrew Stark. "Mental well-being is something people from all walks of life can struggle with and we believe our surfers and platforms can be really powerful when it comes to sending positive messages around mental health, not to mention the act of surfing itself. We look forward to rolling out this partnership in 2023 and beyond and thank Healthway and Surfing WA for the opportunity to be involved."
"The State Government's partnership with the World Surf League and Surfing WA provides a fantastic platform to create positive mental health and wellbeing at a community, State, national, and international level," said Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson. "These partnerships allow us to directly engage with the surfing community and younger generations on how to proactively look after our mental health. Both organisations have a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of Western Australians, and we look forward to the positive community health outcomes these partnerships will bring."
"This is a fantastic partnership and one that will benefit young people in particular," said WA Sports and Recreation Minister David Templeman. "Sport is a wonderful tool to have in your mental health first aid toolbox as we all know that being active, being part of something bigger than ourselves and committing to something is not only fun, but also psychologically beneficial."