Research verifies link between recreaton and well-being

31/8/95

A world first in research released by Sport and Recreation Minister Norman Moore today has verified the link between recreation and a person's well-being.

"There has been a general assumption that recreation and well-being are linked but this has never been scientifically validated," Mr Moore said. 

"This research, which has not been done anywhere else in the world, shows there is a direct relationship between recreation and a person's well-being."

The research was conducted in three stages and included survey results from 600 adults living in Perth.

Conducted for the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, Mr Moore said the research would have an impact on the way the State Government invested money in recreation.

"The research has identified areas that need to be targeted, such as increasing the community's perception of and participation in sport and recreation," he said. 

"While participation rates are good, there is a lot of room for improvement.  A small percentage increase in participation rates would probably result in substantial savings in the cost of providing health and other services.

"It is the old adage of prevention being better than a cure."

Mr Moore said other findings to come out of the research raised some interesting questions.

"There needs to be a better understanding at the local level of what will improve people's satisfaction with recreation and give them more opportunities to participate," he said.

"The State Government already makes a significant investment in sport and recreation and is committed to help local communities improve their sport and recreation facilities through a variety of funds."

Mr Moore said overall, the Western Australians surveyed recognised that improving their satisfaction with recreation would improve their well-being.

"I encourage everyone to recognise this link and actively intensify their participation in sport and recreation which this State's climate and lifestyle support," he said.

Media contact: Anabel Gomez 321 1444