- The Palaszczuk Government is proud to be partnering with Queensland Ballet to offer clinically designed dance programs for vulnerable Queenslanders.
- A $750,000 investment will see Queensland Ballet run three programs and develop more to support the health and wellbeing to key groups in the community.
- The funding was announced at the opening of Queensland Ballet’s Van Norton Li Community Health Institute.
The Palaszczuk Government is partnering with Queensland Ballet to offer clinically designed dance rehabilitation, mobility, and strength classes for key groups throughout the state.
Queensland Ballet has received $750,000 in funding to deliver several programs through the brand new Van Norton Li Community Health Institute.
The classes are for people with a range of health conditions in Queensland, including Parkinson’s disease, brain injuries, arthritis, mobility issues, neurological and mental health conditions, and orthopaedic rehabilitation patients.
The programs are based on research and have been designed and evaluated by Queensland Ballet teaching artists, health clinicians, and researchers from Griffith University and Queensland University of Technology.
The programs will be offered to key groups in the community, residential aged care facilities, and various hospital settings until 30 June 2026.
Importantly, the funding will allow these programs to grow and reach people in both metropolitan and regional areas, regardless of their abilities, challenges, or barriers to physical activity and participation.
It is another example of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to preventative health and supporting the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders, no matter where they live.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman:
“I am thrilled that we are partnering with Queensland Ballet to offer innovative and research-driven healthcare to all Queenslanders.
“We know that dance and rehabilitation programs offer a range of health benefits including improved strength, mobility, and balance, as well as opportunities for social connection.
“The $750,000 investment will deliver tailored programs to people with conditions like Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and mobility issues to support their health and wellbeing.
“Our government’s commitment to providing Queenslanders with world-class healthcare is evident in this partnership, and I am confident these programs will have a positive impact on participant’s health and well-being.”
Quotes attributable to Queensland Ballet’s Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO:
“Dance has changed my life in so many positive ways. I am so pleased that this funding will help us to improve our community’s health and wellbeing, using dance as our tool.
“I applaud the Queensland Government and Queensland Health for their innovation and vision to support our Dance Health programs, as part of the Van Norton Li Community Health Institute.
“We will reach people in metropolitan, remote, and regional areas, to assist their physical, mental and social health through the joy of dance and music.
“Dance brings a range of health and wellbeing benefits, in a proactive and enjoyable way – you just get immersed in it! Everyone, of all ages and abilities, can participate.
“We can’t wait to expand our programs to impact more peoples’ lives across Queensland.”
