Safe health zones overview and rationale
Prepared by NaturismRE
Submitted by: Vincent Marty, Founder
Introduction
Safe Health Zones, known as SHZ, are an innovative public health model designed to support night shift workers, improve community wellbeing and reduce long-term health burdens. SHZ make intelligent use of existing public parks, reserves, riverbanks and selected national park areas by transforming them into structured recovery environments. The approach is low cost, environmentally responsible and aligned with NSW preventive health and community wellbeing priorities.
A voluntary clothing optional wellbeing section may be included within each SHZ to enhance sunlight exposure, nature connection and mental health outcomes for individuals who choose to use it. This section remains small, discreet and clearly marked. Participation is optional and the wider SHZ remains fully open to families and all community members.
This document outlines the rationale, health basis and benefits of SHZ to support the NSW 2026 to 27 Budget submission.
Health rationale for SHZ
Night shift workers are exposed to heightened rates of chronic illness due to circadian rhythm disruption. Research highlights increased risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, depression, anxiety, fatigue, workplace injury and reduced lifespan. These risks contribute significantly to healthcare demand and productivity loss.
Nature-based recovery environments help to counter these effects. Studies consistently show that natural sunlight, grounding techniques, open green space, quiet environments and mindful outdoor exposure support:
reduction in stress
improved emotional regulation
recovery of circadian alignment
enhanced mental stability
lower cortisol levels
stronger immune response
SHZ build on this evidence by offering a structured environment that is cost effective and scalable.
Rationale for optional naturist wellbeing sections
A small clothing optional section within the SHZ may be offered for those who benefit from deeper nature immersion. Evidence from body-positive psychology and nature-based therapies shows that controlled sunlight exposure and skin contact with natural elements can enhance relaxation, confidence and mental clarity.
Internationally, clothing optional areas in parks, beaches and nature reserves operate safely in countries such as Germany, Spain, France, New Zealand and Canada. These models demonstrate that designated and clearly marked spaces reduce conflict, enhance clarity and provide respectful choices for diverse community needs.
The section remains voluntary, discreet and designed with privacy in mind through vegetation buffers, natural landforms or wooden screens.
SHZ as preventive health infrastructure
SHZ align with NSW preventive health strategy by:
reducing disease burden associated with night shift work
supporting mental health across the broader community
encouraging safe sunlight exposure
activating existing natural spaces without new construction
offering inclusive outdoor wellbeing areas
reducing stress and fatigue-related risk
These zones support families, seniors, people experiencing burnout and visitors seeking restorative outdoor environments.
Community benefits
A community-based SHZ provides:
affordable public health support for shift workers
enhanced use of public parks
a safe, respectful and inclusive wellbeing space
spaces for mindfulness, relaxation and stress recovery
increased community cohesion
clear boundaries that reduce misunderstanding and conflict
Optional clothing optional areas remain a small part of the precinct and strengthen the accessibility of nature-based wellbeing practices.
Economic benefits
SHZ deliver economic gains through:
lower long-term healthcare costs
reduced workers compensation claims
higher productivity in night shift industries
increased local tourism
revitalisation of parks and natural spaces
SHZ are low cost to establish because councils use existing landscapes, vegetation and paths with minor adjustments.
Conclusion
Safe Health Zones provide a practical, evidence-aligned and cost-efficient model to support night shift workers and community wellbeing. The voluntary naturist component enhances outcomes for those who choose to use it and can be implemented respectfully within a clearly marked, discreet area.
The SHZ model represents a modern and sustainable approach to preventive health, delivering significant value to NSW residents and the state’s long-term health priorities.