If you’re living with or at risk of heart disease or type 2 diabetes or simply want to learn more about living a healthier lifestyle, the Healthy Eating Active Lifestyle (HEAL) program offers a safe and supportive way to start making healthy changes. The HEAL program supports you to eat well, move more, and gain confidence in managing your health.
This national program has been running for over 25 years and is owned by South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN). It’s available to adults across Australia through a network of trained providers.
What is the HEAL program?
HEAL is an eight-week group program designed to help you improve your health and wellbeing. Each week, you will attend a two-hour group session which includes:
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- one hour of health and lifestyle education
- one hour of safe, supervised physical activity tailored to your ability
You’ll also have one-on-one sessions with your HEAL facilitator at the start and end of the program. These sessions help you:
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- check your fitness
- set personalised goals
- create a health plan which works for you
You’ll have additional check-ins at around:
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- five months after starting the program
- 12 months after starting the program
These check-ins provide ongoing support and help you stay on track.
Topics covered in HEAL
HEAL includes practical information on:
- how to measure your health and success
- how to safely be more physically active
- what healthy eating looks like
- nutrients and portion sizes
- how to read food labels
Who HEAL is for
HEAL is suitable for adults of all fitness levels, including people who are new to exercise. It’s especially helpful if you:
- have or are at risk of heart disease or type 2 diabetes
- want to learn how to eat better and be more active
- prefer a gentle, step-by-step approach with professional guidance
- are looking for a supportive group environment to make lasting lifestyle changes
South Western Sydney PHN, owners of the HEAL program, fund local accredited exercise physiologists and physiotherapists to work with general practice to deliver HEAL throughout South Western Sydney.
Speak to your GP about joining the HEAL program. They can check if you’re likely to be eligible and help you take the next step. Funded HEAL provider list
What others say
GP’s perspective
“This program was very beneficial to all the patients who took part in it,” Dr Hua said. “In addition to weight loss, there were noticeable improvements in blood pressure, diabetes control and, in some instances, their psychological wellbeing.
“Obesity is a growing health epidemic in South Western Sydney and across Australia. The program was a great initiative for patients to lose weight and adopt a healthier lifestyle.”
Think HEAL is for you?
Speak to your local exercise physiologist, physiotherapist or another allied health professional. They may offer the HEAL program or be eligible to become a HEAL-trained facilitator.
This program is available to patients from any general practice in South Western Sydney, whether or not the practice is registered with MyMedicare. A GP care plan is not required. Your GP or practice staff can make a quick referral by calling their preferred MTC-HEAL facilitator.
Registrations close 31 October 2025 or when all places are filled.