Safe health zones State & federal budget submissions
NaturismRE has formally submitted SHZ proposals to both state and federal governments
NaturismRE confirms that formal pre-budget submissions have now been lodged with the NSW Government and the Australian Government, presenting the Safe Health Zone model as a cost-efficient, scalable and evidence-aligned public health initiative.
These submissions demonstrate that NaturismRE is committed to advancing real policy reform that supports night shift workers, activates public land for community wellbeing and reduces long-term pressure on health systems. The proposals outline how selected public parks, reserves, riverbanks and national park locations can be converted into Safe Health Zones, with the option for a small, clearly marked clothing optional section for individuals who benefit from deeper nature immersion and sunlight exposure.
Participation remains voluntary, respectful and compatible with existing public uses.
Why NaturismRE made government submissions
The purpose of lodging official submissions is to ensure that Safe Health Zones are recognised by government as a practical and credible approach to preventive health. The model supports:
Night shift worker recovery
Community mental health
Sustainable use of existing public land
Low-cost wellbeing infrastructure
Enhanced access to natural environments
NaturismRE aims to work constructively with all levels of government to deliver innovative public health solutions that demonstrate measurable benefits for communities across Australia.
What was included in the submissions
Both the NSW and Federal submissions highlighted:
The growing health burden faced by night shift workers
The proven benefits of structured nature-based recovery
The low cost of converting existing public parks into SHZ precincts
The option of including a small clothing optional wellbeing area for those who choose it
The significant economic and social benefits associated with preventive health design
The potential for tourism and community activation using natural spaces
Aa call for pilot programs, national guidelines and formal evaluation studies
The submissions were accompanied by supporting documents outlining the SHZ model, implementation methods and expected outcomes.
A public commitment to transparency and constructive engagement
NaturismRE believes in open, respectful and responsible dialogue with government. Lodging formal submissions ensures that Safe Health Zones are considered within established policy processes. Most importantly, it confirms that NaturismRE is serious, forward-looking and dedicated to improving public health outcomes for the wider community.
NaturismRE will provide updates as government responses or consultation outcomes become available.
Next steps
NaturismRE will continue to:
engage with councils interested in piloting SHZ
collaborate with public health experts and community organisations
prepare additional research and evidence to support the model
expand public awareness of Safe Health Zones and their benefits
For councils, employers or community organisations wishing to explore participation or request guidance, NaturismRE welcomes further contact.
Government submissions and supporting documents
NSW pre-budget submission
A formal 2026 to 27 pre-budget submission was lodged with the NSW Treasury outlining the Safe Health Zone model and its integration into existing parks, reserves and riverbanks.
NSW pre-budget submission page -click here.
Federal pre-budget submission
NaturismRE has also submitted the national Safe Health Zone proposal to the Australian Government Treasury for consideration as part of the 2026 to 27 Federal Budget.
Federal pre-budget submission - click here.
SHZ implementation guide for local councils and park authorities
This guide explains how councils can convert selected public parks, riversides and reserves into Safe Health Zones using low-cost visual buffers, signage and pathway design.
Shz implementation guide for local councils and park authorities
Safe Health Zones overview and rationale
A concise overview of the SHZ model, the health science supporting it, and the benefits for night shift workers and communities.