putting health and wellbeing first

When it comes to health and wellbeing, women need to put themselves first more often.

We all know how important it is, but how much time do we spend focusing on our own health? No one will deny that the healthier you are, the better it is for you, your family, your work, and the life you want to lead.

When it comes to your super, your health is also a factor. The healthier you are as you age, the more likely you’ll be able to finish working when you want to and enjoy a long, active retirement. Your health also affects your ability to obtain life insurance, as well as the insurance fees you pay.

At HESTA, around 80% of our members are women. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)¹, Australia's health workforce is also predominantly female, with just over 6 female nurses for each male nurse.

Some worrying stats on the health of Australian women

Unfortunately, many of us spend so much of our lives looking after others that we’re just not looking after ourselves. AIHW data² shows that only 59% of Australian females are sufficiently physically active, with just 25% of females doing enough strength or toning activities on 2 or more days per week.

We’re also not eating well enough, with a whopping 91% of us not meeting the recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake guidelines in 2020–21. One in 11 women still smokes and one in 8 drink more than the recommended intake of alcohol. On top of that, 60% of women are overweight or obese³.

While Australian women do generally have a higher life expectancy than men, they tend to be more likely to live with chronic disease, such as arthritis, diabetes, back problems, osteoporosis and mental health conditions⁴. 

Help is out there

If the worst happens and your health does affect your ability to work, don’t despair. Eligible HESTA members have access to insurance through their super (you receive it automatically when you meet certain criteria). You can check what cover you have by visiting your online account.

Our insurer AIA* provides health coaching to support you and your health goals. Here are some ways AIA’s rehabilitation programs can help you when making an insurance claim:

Pain Coach for chronic pain

The Pain Coach program is a telehealth education initiative designed to empower individuals in managing chronic pain effectively. Participants will learn to incorporate beneficial movement into their recovery process, developing valuable strategies to regain control over their well-being.

Cancer Coach for cancer patients

The Cancer Coach program provides essential support for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. With personalised coaching, digital tools, and educational resources, this program helps individuals understand their diagnosis, adopt positive behavioural changes, and actively engage in their health journey.

Mind Coach for mental health conditions

The Mind Coach program offers a stepped care health coaching approach that employs cognitive behavioural therapy techniques. This initiative supports individuals dealing with depression or anxiety by providing effective coping strategies to help manage the challenges they are facing.

If you’re not looking to make an insurance claim, but need support in managing your mental wellbeing, all HESTA members have access to My Psychologist.  

This is an online service catering to all mental health needs. Each session is conducted by a psychologist, supporting individuals and their immediate family members, aged 13 and over. With a Mental Health Care Plan, members can access 10 sessions with a gap fee of only $60 per session^, ensuring timely and professional care. Terms and conditions apply.

¹ Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Health workforce, July 2024
² Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, The health of Australia’s females, June 2023
³ Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, The health of Australia’s females, June 2023
⁴ Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, The health of Australia’s females, June 2023

* Third-party services are provided by parties other than H.E.S.T. Australia Ltd and under the terms and conditions of those parties. H.E.S.T. Australia Ltd does not recommend, endorse or accept any responsibility for the products and services offered by third parties or any liability for loss or damage incurred as a result of services provided by third parties. You should exercise your own judgment about the products and services being offered.

^ Any cost for services will be paid by you directly and cannot be deducted from your HESTA account. This cost will be agreed with you prior to your direct payment of the fee. HESTA does not receive commissions for the services.