In 2026, Inclusee steps boldly into a new chapter defined by Evolution - a year where innovation, growth and purpose intertwine to strengthen social connection across Australia. As our organisation continues to expand its impact and refine its vision, we remain anchored in one unshakeable truth: social connection is not just a human need - it is a public health imperative.
Around the world, loneliness and social isolation have reached critical levels. In 2025, the World Health Organization reported that 1 in 6 people globally is affected by loneliness, contributing to more than 871,000 deaths annually - a health impact comparable to well-known risk factors like smoking. Strong social connections, the WHO emphasises, significantly reduce the risk of early death and improve overall health outcomes.
The WHO’s findings underscore how deeply connection shapes human wellbeing: from reducing the risk of heart disease and dementia to strengthening educational and economic outcomes. Social connection is not simply “nice to have”—it is foundational to living longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives.
For Inclusee, this global evidence reinforces why our mission is not optional; it is essential.
This year’s theme, Evolution, is more than a slogan. Evolution represents Inclusee’s commitment to positioning itself as a cultural catalyst, shaping a future where social connection is recognised as a core component of health and wellbeing.
Sidenote: For a team of proud Pokémon fans, it’s hard not to smile at the fact that Evolution feels a bit like fate. Much like Eevee, the most versatile little legend in the Pokédex, we know that growth can take many forms
and every pathway can lead to something remarkable.
Our strategic pillars for 2026 reflect this direction, focusing on:
These pillars express our commitment to continuous improvement; not just for Inclusee, but for the broader sector.
2026 will be a landmark year for expanding the Inclusee community. From launching the new Inclusee Virtual Community Centre App, to delivering Say G’Day Day as a national flagship campaign, to building a robust CALD framework, our growth is designed with intention and impact.
Each year, Inclusee chooses one area of diversity to explore more deeply, strengthening our understanding, exploring intersectionality, and sharpening our impact. In 2026, our focus is on CALD communities, also referred to as CARM, meaning culturally and racially marginalised. By leaning into this focus, we aim to better support those who face systemic barriers to connection, ensuring our programs and partnerships reflect the full richness and diversity of the communities we serve.
Our goal is clear: to connect with more people than ever before, ensuring that every individual—regardless of culture, age, background, or circumstance—has the opportunity to feel seen, valued and supported.
Inclusee is evolving from “service” to a symbol of preventative health and social change, helping shift hearts, minds and systems across Australia.
The challenge of loneliness is too great for any organisation to tackle alone. The WHO describes social isolation as a threat that requires coordination across health systems, education, communities and digital infrastructure.
This is where Inclusee plays a critical role. Our partnerships—with community organisations, aged care providers, corporates, local government, researchers and global networks—are essential to amplifying our impact. Our collaborations with groups such as the WHO, GILC, Ageing Australia and the Diversity Council Australia strengthen our capacity to create meaningful change.
Partnering with Inclusee enables organisations to:
“2026 is the year we evolve; not just as an organisation, but as a community. Every connection we create has the power to change a life. When we come together with purpose, compassion and courage, we don’t just support individuals… we reshape the future of social health in Australia.”
Inclusee is ready to lead a national movement that makes social connection a defining health priority for Australia. But to do this, we need partners, collaborators, and changemakers who share our vision.
Whether you’re a community organisation, corporate partner, educator, healthcare provider, volunteer or advocate—there is a place for you in this movement.
Together, we will build a future where every person feels connected, valued and supported.
This is our evolution. This is Inclusee in 2026.
Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee.
Learn more about the term CARM at the Diversity Council of Australia's website - CARM women in leadership - Diversity Council Australia
Find out more about the World Health Organization's Commission on Social Connection report - Report of the WHO Commission on Social Connection
Find out more about the Global Initiative on Loneliness and Connection (GILC) - HOME | GILC
Find out more about Ageing Australia - Ageing Australia
