42.9% of people aged 16–85 years
had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life
21.5% of people
had a 12-month mental disorder
17.2% of people aged 16–85 years
had a 12-month anxiety disorder
38.8% of people aged 16–24 years
had a 12-month mental disorder
*Statistics from the 2020-2022 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Our impact on the community
Communities, connections and conversations
We collaborate with the community to raise awareness and encourage open dialogue around mental health.
Creating kinship within the community
Stay connected
Local community involvement
PAW
VISITS
Making the elderly smile with dog-friendly visits to aged care homes.
THE HILLS WOMEN’S SHED
Embracing deeper social connections through regular community meet-ups and female-empowered activities.
YOUNG HEALTHY MINDS
Working with high school students to improve mental health and smash the stigma.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Organising community talks to promote positive mental wellbeing.
Donating to the Positive Vibes Foundation
Want to make an impact?
If you are passionate about improving the lives of those in the local community
– both young and old – then consider contributing to the Positive Vibes Foundation.
No matter the size of your donation, it will make a difference to someone’s life.
As a registered charity, any donations over $2 are tax deductible.
A bright night up in lights: The Annual Positive Vibes Gala Dinner
This year’s 2023 gala ball was hosted by Biviano’s Restaurant in Dural. Thank you to all those who attended and donated to Biviano’s Hills Community Gala Ball on 31 August in support of the Positive Vibes Foundation.
UPmarket
A family and pet-friendly monthly market to get out into the community and discuss positive mental health.
The stall is staffed by welcoming mental health professionals who are on-hand to answer any questions and encourage conversation around mental wellness topics.
Feedback about the Foundation
I retired in March 2022 and have been attending The Hills Women's Shed for about 3 months, I heard about THWS through a friend who has been going for some time. I look forward to Thursdays and doing interesting crafts, having cooking lessons and learning all sorts of new things, but what I especially like is meeting new people and making new friends. It's a safe, caring environment and I'm so happy to be included.
As a Councilor with The Hills Shire Council, I have seen firsthand the incredible work Positive Vibes does in supporting our community. They offer programs such as their community engagement program, the Young Healthy Minds Forum, The Hills Women’s Shed, and the Paw Visits program. These initiatives help address mental health issues, support women who have been abused, bring joy to the elderly, and raise much-needed funds. Positive Vibes is led by an amazing team, and I am confident that they will continue to make a significant positive impact in our community.
Pets are a big part of peoples lives and it is so hard when they move into care to not be able to have their pets with them. Our residents really love visits from Positive Vibes as it gives them a chance to interact with the animals, bringing back that feeling even if only for a short time. They are always looking forward to the next visit.
An opportunity to visit a care home with our BC Alfie seemed like a nice thing to try. In reality, we all have a lot of fun. It is great to see the excitement of residents during our visits. Alfie loves the attention and we enjoy the residents stories.
One visit in particular stands out. As Alfie stopped beside one lady for a pat, her eyes lit up and she started chatting away to him. The staff got really excited, one with a little tear in her eye, as apparently that was the first time they had ever heard that lady being verbal. What a privilege to witness something like that.
Thanks Positive Paws for the volunteering opportunity.
For me, it is only 1 hour fortnightly but for the residents it is a memorable weekend activity.
It is great to spend time together with my dog and at the same time help others with is.
For my dog, it is exciting to meet the residents and he can refine his social skills and learn to be extra patient. It is almost equivalent to an hour walk for him.
The residents at Arcare Oatlands love to see the volunteers and dogs of positive paws each month! The organisation brings a lot of joy, kindness, and warmth to our facility.
In a world where we are so busy, in such a hurry, it is nice to be of service to those that are not in a position to access what they like, want,enjoy.
Time at the facilty is always rewarding for me, my dog, and I hope the individuals that receive my dog with big smiles and cheers.
It is great to see (Suga) my dog makes such a difference because the individuals help her be the best she can be.