NSW 2026 to 27 Pre-Budget Submission
A statewide study on stigma, body perception and nature-based wellbeing
Submitted by: NaturismRE Pty Ltd
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder
Sydney, NSW
www.NaturismRE.com
SUBMITTED 10/12/2025 at 14:20
Introducción
NaturismRE proposes that the NSW Government fund a statewide study examining stigma associated with body image, social identity and nature-based wellbeing practices. Stigma influences mental health, participation in community life and the ability of individuals to engage in positive outdoor activity. Without reliable data, government cannot fully understand its scale, contributing factors or long-term impacts.
NaturismRE has developed the Standardised Stigma Measure, known as SSM, a research tool designed to assess stigma consistently, quantitatively and across diverse population groups. This submission recommends using SSM to conduct a scientifically robust study that will support the development of evidence-based public health, education and community programs.
Background
Stigma related to body image and perceived social norms is a growing mental health challenge. Research suggests that negative evaluations of the human body contribute to anxiety, low self-esteem, social withdrawal and reduced engagement in physical and outdoor activities. These conditions affect wellbeing, productivity and quality of life while increasing pressure on health and community services.
Although NSW has several mental health and resilience programs, there is no standardised statewide method for measuring body-related stigma or understanding how it affects different communities and demographic groups. This gap makes it difficult to create targeted interventions or evaluate their effectiveness over time.
The Standardised Stigma Measure provides an opportunity to generate high-quality data that can inform NSW policy frameworks in health, education, community wellbeing and preventive health strategy.
The challenge
The absence of evidence about stigma levels in NSW limits the effectiveness of programs aimed at improving mental health, body confidence and public engagement with nature and outdoor recreation. Without a baseline measure, it is not possible to determine which groups experience the most harm, how stigma influences behaviour or which interventions deliver the greatest benefit.
A statewide stigma study would create a strong foundation for designing policies that reduce mental health risks, improve confidence and support inclusive participation in community environments.
Proposal
NaturismRE proposes a NSW-funded research project that will:
conduct a statewide stigma assessment using the Standardised Stigma Measure
partner with universities and mental health specialists to ensure scientific rigor
collect quantitative and qualitative data across age groups, cultural backgrounds and regions
analyse how stigma affects behaviour, engagement with outdoor spaces and emotional wellbeing
produce a public report with findings, recommendations and policy implications
The study will not promote any lifestyle or belief system. Its purpose is to measure stigma objectively to support government planning and mental health strategies.
Methodology
The research would be delivered in three phases.
Phase one. Establishment of research partnerships and ethics approval through participating universities. Development of sampling methods, demographic categories and recruitment pathways.
Phase two. Data collection across NSW using the Standardised Stigma Measure. Surveys may be conducted online, in schools, in workplaces and through community organisations.
Phase three. Analysis of results, development of a stigma index and publication of findings. Recommendations will be structured to inform preventive health initiatives, educational programs and community wellbeing strategies.
Expected outcomes
A statewide stigma index for NSW
Identification of population groups most affected by stigma
Clear evidence linking stigma to mental health challenges
Improved understanding of how stigma affects participation in healthy outdoor activity
Guidance for schools, health agencies and community organisations
Baseline data for long-term monitoring and evaluation
These outcomes support NSW priorities in mental health, community inclusion, youth support and preventive health.
Benefits to NSW
Health benefits
More effective mental health programs
Better understanding of the psychological burden associated with stigma
Increased participation in outdoor and nature-based activities
Improved emotional resilience and confidence across communities
Social benefits
Reduced stigma and discrimination
Stronger community cohesion
Better support for young people experiencing body image concerns
Improved wellbeing outcomes across diverse demographic groups
Economic benefits
Long-term reduction in healthcare demand
Enhanced workforce participation and productivity
Data to guide cost-efficient preventive health planning
Funding approach
The proposal can be funded through NSW Health preventive health allocations, mental wellbeing initiatives or cross-agency research budgets shared by Health, Education and Communities and Justice.
Partnerships with universities and mental health foundations can reduce costs and enhance scientific rigor. Because this is a research project rather than a capital program, budget requirements are modest and the return on investment is high due to long-term health and social benefits.
Conclusión
A statewide stigma study using the Standardised Stigma Measure will provide NSW with critical evidence needed to design effective mental health, education and wellbeing programs. The research is low cost, highly impactful and aligned with government priorities in preventive health, youth wellbeing, social inclusion and community resilience.
NaturismRE is ready to work with the NSW Government, universities and mental health experts to support the delivery of this project.
Póngase en contacto con
Vincent Marty
Founder, NaturismRE Pty Ltd
Sydney, NSW
www.NaturismRE.com
+61 494 164 815