- Eight research projects funded through Healthway’s Open Research Round
- Investment supports Cook Labor Government priority to ensure all Western Australians can access the health care they need, when they need it
- Applications now open for Healthway’s Open Research Round
The Cook Labor Government has invested more than $1 million in research to help Western Australians stay healthier, more active, and connected.
The eight research projects funded through Healthway’s 2025 Open Research Round include development of a $373,655 walking sports initiative to help women stay active and socially connected after having a baby.
The three-year University of Western Australia project will explore walking-based versions of familiar sports such as football, netball, hockey, and basketball, designed specifically for women in the postnatal period.
By adapting sport to be lower impact and more flexible, the initiative aims to support women’s physical recovery, confidence, and wellbeing while creating opportunities for social connection and a sense of belonging within local communities.
Other funded projects include co-designing physical activity messaging for young people (Curtin University) and designing and piloting a digital chatbot to improve young families’ access to support services (The University of Western Australia).
Healthway’s 2026 Open Research Round is now open, continuing investment in research that delivers real-world benefits for Western Australians.
Healthway is a State Government agency solely dedicated to health promotion and preventative health. For more information and to find out how to apply, visit www.healthway.wa.gov.au
As stated by Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton:
“The 2026 Open Research Round is now open, with a focus on projects that advance health equity across WA. If you’re working to support those who need it most, we want to hear from you.
“The Research Round coincides with the announcement of the 2025 recipients, who are sharing more than $1 million in Healthway research funding.
“The Open Research Round in funding practical, evidence-based initiatives that will deliver real benefits for Western Australians.”
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
“The funding is delivering on tangible initiatives, including supporting Western Australian women after having a baby.
“The years after having a baby are a critical time to support women’s health, wellbeing, and social connection, and that matters because poor maternal wellbeing can have lasting impacts on child development.
“By adapting sport to reflect the realities of motherhood, we’re making it easier for women to stay active, build friendships, and feel supported during an important stage of life.”
As stated by Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson:
“Healthway’s 2025 Open Research Round is investing more than $1 million in research programs to help Western Australians stay healthier, more active, and connected.
“Our Health Promotion Research program funds collaborative research, focused on knowledge translation, that has the potential and intent to impact policy, programs and/or practice in WA and ultimately lead to improved health outcomes.
“Through investments like this and the Future Health Research and Innovation Fund, the Cook Labor Government is supporting medical and health research that delivers real benefits to the community.”
