Brisbane residents will have access to new, free health and fitness programs as part of efforts to capitalise on its early-morning economy.
Locals will also be consulted on a new Dawn Economy Plan with recent research revealing 30 percent of Brisbane’s food businesses are open by 7am.
The new $5.6 million Move Well Brisbane program will be funded in the Brisbane City Council 2026-27 budget.
It is the “next chapter” of the city’s Active and Healthy program, which provides free and low-cost fitness and movement activities.
Around 9000 Active and Healthy sessions are currently delivered annually in 218 locations across Brisbane.
These include Chillout activities targeting children up to 17 years and a GOLD program for residents over the age of 50.
Under the new Move Well Brisbane program, the number of sessions will more than double to 20,000 over the next two years, delivered by 400 small businesses.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said more people were taking a whole-of-life approach to wellbeing.
This ranged from sunrise walks and running clubs to yoga mindfulness sessions and nutrition workshops
“While some cities start late, Brisbane comes alive at dawn, with residents making the most of our great weather and outdoor lifestyle,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Move Well Brisbane will be the biggest boost to free programs we’ve ever had, helping to reduce the cost of living and complementing all those fitness movements that are already occurring across Brisbane.”
CEO of Nutrition Australia Kirsty Elliot said her organisation was thrilled to be partnering with Brisbane City Council to support residents.
“Our hands-on workshops will empower the community to build their cooking skills and awareness of nutritious, budget-friendly food options,” she said.
“Many households are feeling cost-of-living pressures, so we know how important it is to share ideas on how we can stretch our food budget a bit further while serving up delicious, affordable and easy meals and snacks for ourselves and family.”
