Wellbeing | The Runway

Wellbeing is essential to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as it directly impacts operational readiness, performance, and overall morale. When ADF personnel are physically fit, mentally resilient, and emotionally balanced, they can fulfil their duties effectively, make sound decisions, and enhance team dynamics. Prioritizing wellbeing creates a supportive environment, recognizes the sacrifices of personnel, and improves job satisfaction and retention. It also proactively addresses mental health challenges, reduces stress, and promotes psychological resilience among ADF members. By investing in the wellbeing of its personnel, the ADF ensures readiness, cohesion, and the overall success of military missions.

The Psychology of Sustainable Fitness

For many people, fitness starts with motivation and ends in frustration. And, because motivation fluctuates, high-intensity efforts often backfire. So, instead of intensity, chase continuity because small, consistent actions are more likely to become habits.

The re-emergence of polio in Papua New Guinea shows global eradication remains elusive

Recent polio cases in Papua New Guinea highlight the urgent need for stronger health systems—disease control still depends on widespread access, fast responses and consistent international cooperation. PNG's routine immunisation rate remains critically low.

The Myth of Belonging

Not belonging isn’t a flaw, it’s a different psychological orientation. From the moment we are born, we are wired for connection, but standing apart can be a form of integrity—not isolation.

We talk a lot about being ‘resilient’. But what does it actually mean?

Resilience means having the ability to cope with, and rebound from, life’s challenges and still achieve our goals. Our capacity to cope with stressors can determine whether we thrive, or just survive.

Using same arm for vaccination boosts antibody response: Study

Early research carried out by a group of Sydney-based scientists found that people who had both doses of a vaccination in the same arm produced neutralising antibodies significantly faster, hastening the body’s immune response.

To prepare for future threats, treat health security as national security

Health and defence have been integrated into defence strategies in Canada, Britain, the US and New Zealand. Australia needs to do the same. Ignoring this link weakens preparedness in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.

Lest we forget? Aside from Anzac Day, NZ has been slow to remember its military veterans

Recent changes to the official veteran definition- recognising about 100,000 more people- brings hope but highlights a long history of neglect. Veterans exposed to atomic tests still uncompensated and Agent Orange health impacts faced slow acknowledgment.

Our ancestors didn’t eat 3 meals a day. So why do we?

How did we go from one or two main meals a day, to three? The answer may lie with the British Royal Navy, which served three regular meals to align with the shipboard routine.

You Can't Out-Train Your Trauma

In the health and fitness industry, the thing too often not spoken about is that many men struggle with body image. Overtraining, binge eating, or numbing with exercise are coping strategies rooted in emotional survival.

If a Roman Emperor Couldn’t Get It, Why Should We Expect It?

At work, we often expect others to put our needs first—this can lead to disappointment. It may happen when people don’t meet their responsibilities. The key is learning to cope with unmet expectations.