Take our free Real Wellbeing test and see how you compare to fellow Aussies

Take the test

Tags: What is Real Wellbeing? AUWI20 Wellbeing Index

Danielle Blaschuk

Originally from Canada, Danielle says, “I never really had a home. Both of my parents are academics and every three years we’d move cities or countries. That meant I was never really able to have strong friendships.”

Meeting her husband—who’s from “a big Italian family”—and settling in Australia meant she began to feel more free to open up to people and form closer personal bonds.

For Danielle, discovering the feeling of wellbeing came in a surprising way.

On buying her first home, she says she fell in love with an antique clock—and bought it.

“One night I was sitting in my living room and I saw the clock and the feeling was amazing. I had something impractical that I’d never have to get rid of. It was a feeling of security and comfort and stability that I don’t think I’d ever had before.”

Kevin Young

Kevin’s story: the value of relationships

Find out why Kevin now puts a much higher premium on his personal relationships. Read more

Peter Sirriani

Peter’s story: looking back on a life well-lived

Looking back on his life, Peter Sirianni understands why our sense of wellbeing improves as we age. Read more

Elleni Bereded-Samuel

Elleni’s story: family ties

Find out more about Elleni's quest to build community in her work and why the way we connect with people is critical to our wellbeing. Read more

Luke Benedictus

Luke’s story: the power of parenthood

“Has becoming a dad made me happier?” For Luke Benedictus that’s a surprisingly tricky question to answer. Read more

Michaela Reiss

Michaela’s story: finding a gentler pace

Find out what Michaela Reiss discovered when she moved to regional Victoria from Melbourne in search of a better work-life balance. Read more

Discover more Real Wellbeing profiles

What is Real Wellbeing?

Is wellbeing just for the wealthy?

The Australian Unity Wellbeing Index found “average Australians” are now reporting lower levels of wellbeing. We spoke to the experts to find out why.

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

Under 35 and feeling lonely? You’re not alone

Australian Unity Wellbeing Index research revealed that people under 35 feel lonelier than ever. Our experts unpack the results.

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

Our changing attitudes to life in Australia

Is Australia still the land of the “fair go”? The latest Australian Unity Wellbeing Index results show Australians are increasingly dissatisfied with our nation.

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

A growing generational divide?

We expect each generation will be better off than the one before. But results from the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index indicate this is no longer the case.

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

Research shows Australians are struggling

It’s been a tough few years for Australians’ wellbeing—and this year’s Australian Unity Wellbeing Index indicates we’re still in the thick of it.

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

What does “being in balance” really mean?

Real Wellbeing is all about being in balance. But when you’re juggling work, family and relationships, what does a balanced life really look like?

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

The secret to a balanced life

Balancing life’s priorities is an ongoing struggle. But is there a formula that can help you achieve Real Wellbeing?

Read more
What is Real Wellbeing?

The mental health of young Australians

Although Australians’ mental health is improving, the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index shows us that young Australians are continuing to struggle. Our experts tell us more.

Read more