Postcards sent in mental health campaign

Five million mailboxes, including every regional and rural home across Australia, were sent a special prepaid postcard this month, thanks to an expanded campaign between Australia Post and Beyond Blue.

This year the partnership will reach over one million households in Victoria alone.

In response to the pressing need for mental health support, Australia Post and Beyond Blue have significantly increased distribution of their annual campaign, adding an extra one million postcards to the Connection Postcard program, now in its fourth year. These postcards carry important mental health messages to encourage greater community connection and support mental wellbeing across the country.

With research indicating nearly one-in-three Australians grapple with loneliness, especially in remote or regional areas, this initiative offers a simple way for people to connect.

Millions of Australians have opened their mailbox to discover a newly designed two-part “Connection Postcard”. One part includes important mental health information and Beyond Blue contact details; while the detachable second part includes a pre-paid postcard for recipients to pen a personalised note to send to a friend or loved one.

Created by regional Australian artist Jocelyn Proust, the new illustration includes two fairy wrens in a vibrant natural setting to signify the power of communication for connection and begins with the words, “Sharing this postcard because I care”.

Beyond Blue chief executive officer Georgie Harman said the expanded campaign came at a time when greater community connection and awareness about accessible and affordable mental health supports was critical.

“While people have never been more digitally connected, the research shows too many people experience feelings of disconnection, loneliness and isolation. In our fourth year in partnership with Australia Post, we hope to continue fostering genuine connection through the simple act of sending a personalised postcard, while also encouraging people to look after their mental health and know that Beyond Blue is always there for them with free support around the clock.

“Whether it’s a simple conversation, a supportive gesture, or a shared experience, fostering connection is essential for nurturing resilience, reducing isolation, and promoting overall wellbeing.”

Australia Post general manager of community and stakeholder engagement Nicky Tracey said Australia Post was proud to be expanding the campaign this year.

“We know that when we connect, we feel better. This is why we’re delighted to be a longstanding partner of Beyond Blue.

“Since 2020, over 16 million Connection Postcards have been delivered, providing Australians, including those in regional and remote communities, access to Beyond Blue’s incredible resources and the opportunity to connect with someone they care about.”