GETTING active pays off. One can enjoy the fruits of labour of love by taking part in some form of regular physical exercise and reap rewards of good health.
Now, there is an added bonus. The Heart Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation, has invited applications for its 2026 Active Australia Innovation Challenge, outlining creative ideas that will help get people in Australia moving and improving heart health.
Heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death, yet many cases are preventable through lifestyle changes – with physical activity among the most powerful. Despite this, only one in five adults meet Australia’s recommended activity guidelines, and nine in 10 children fall short of national 24‑hour movement recommendations.
Since 2018, the Active Australia Innovation Challenge has aimed to encourage people in Australia to be more active for heart health, with 72 grants awarded across the nation for innovative projects that promote physical activity.
Heart Foundation National Manager of Health and Wellbeing Le Smith said the challenge is designed to uncover fresh, community‑led solutions that inspire more people to be active every day, with 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity recommended five or more days per week.
“We are calling on community groups to think big and be bold,” Ms Smith said.
“Whether it’s a tech solution, a local program or a simple new way to get people off the couch, we want to back ideas that can spark more movement and ultimately improve heart health across the country.
“We know the power of movement, but we also know many people in Australia face barriers. The Active Australia Innovation Challenge is about supporting practical, creative solutions that help communities build healthier habits together.”
The 2026 program is supported by the Federal Government, with a total funding pool of $200,000 available for projects that demonstrate a practical, measurable impact.
The Active Australia Innovation Challenge is open to individuals, schools, universities, community groups, organisations and businesses across the country. Priority will be given to initiatives that support groups at higher risk of heart disease, including: people living in rural or remote communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and people living with disability.
Successful applicants will receive a grant of $10,000, $20,000 or $30,000. They also get ongoing support from the Heart Foundation, and networking opportunities with heart‑health experts and community leaders.
Applications are open until 5pm on Sunday, March 1. Up to 15 community projects will receive funding.
To be successful, initiatives must focus on supporting people who are not currently meeting the Australian physical activity and exercise guidelines, and those at higher risk of chronic disease.
For more information and to apply, visit www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-australia-innovation-challenge