It takes a village: Medibank partners with Mum Walk to help new mums feel more connected

Medibank has announced a new 12-month social impact partnership with Mum Walk – a community initiative helping new mums build social connections through free, local mum-led walking groups.

The partnership will help Mum Walk to grow from 50 to 100+ walks nationally, supporting thousands more new mums to get outdoors and build meaningful social support networks in their local community.

Medibank senior executive Andrew Retschko said: “We know that loneliness is a higher risk during major life transitions, like becoming a parent.

“These periods often disrupt existing social networks, routines and sense of identity, increasing vulnerability to disconnection and loneliness.

“Our research shows that connecting into new networks, especially through relatable group activities, is one of the strongest protective factors during these transitions.”

The collaboration with Mum Walk supports Medibank’s commitment to improve mental health and social wellbeing outcomes of Australians and its 10-year commitment to addressing loneliness.

“Our focus is on taking a preventative health approach to reduce the risk of chronic loneliness, which is a leading factor in poorer physical and mental health outcomes over time,” he said.

“It’s why we’re proud to partner with Mum Walk and give more new mums the opportunity to create meaningful social connections – which we know is a powerful protective factor.”

Medibank’s Loneliness Population Research shows:

• 56% of Australians feel lonely each week
• 32% score high on the UCLA Loneliness Scale
• New parenthood is a major trigger
• 73% say loneliness affects their health
• The top barrier to seeking help: not wanting to burden others

Mum Walk founder Kimberly Kay said: “Our research shows 90% of mums reporting feelings of loneliness or isolation after birth – Mum Walk exists to help re-build the social health of mothers across Australia.

“With Medibank’s commitment to preventative health, we can expand nationally and strengthen social connection as a recognised protective factor for maternal mental health.”

Together, Medibank and Mum Walk aim to:

• Double the number of Mum Walk locations in 2026 from 50 to 100 nationally.
• Grow the Mum Walk community to help ensure even more mums across Australia can access a free, preventative wellbeing initiative in their local area.
• Reduce stigma around the experience of loneliness in early parenthood.
• Strengthen mental fitness and social wellbeing in early parenthood.

To learn more or join your local Mum Walk, visit https://www.mumwalk.org/find-your-local-mum-walk