The programs on Active and Healthy are categorised into general physical activity programs and fall prevention programs.
If your program is a fall prevention program, it is important that you register it as a fall prevention program.
To register your program as a fall prevention program, ensure that it meets the eligibility criteria detailed below. Select “Falls Prevention Program” for the question ‘What type of program are you registering?’ when completing the form.
Users can search the directory specifically for fall prevention programs through the filter function. All programs registered as a fall prevention program will have the “FP” symbol next to its listing.
Eligibility criteria for general physical activity programs
To register your program under the general physical activity category, it must meet the following four criteria.
1. It must be a group-based program within NSW.
2. It must offer non-contact activities, or sports that are modified for older adults.
3. It must cater for people aged 50 years and older.
4. Programs must be run by one of the following qualified leaders:
- Tai Chi leader
- nurse
- physiotherapist
- occupational therapist
- sports teacher
- exercise physiologist
- registered local health district physical activity volunteer
- fitness leader – Certificate III, Certificate IV, registered or accredited
- registered yoga instructor
- dance instructor
- coach (providers may be asked for further information on relevant training or experience)
- volunteer leader/trainer (providers may be asked for further information on relevant training or experience).
Eligibility criteria for fall prevention programs
To register your program under the fall prevention category, it must meet the first three criteria listed above and be run by a qualified exercise leader or health professional. It must also meet the additional criteria below to be classified as a fall prevention program. Each listing will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Criteria 1: Specific strength and balance exercises
The most beneficial exercises for improving balance include those where participants aim to:
- stand with their feet close together or on one leg (movement from one leg to the other)
- do exercises standing with minimum use of hands to assist
- do exercises with controlled movement of the whole body while standing (e.g., reaching while standing).
You should list the specific strength and balance exercises on your registration form.
Tai Chi registrations are automatically accepted.
Criteria 2: Class time
At least 40% of class time should be spent doing strength and balance exercises.
The inclusion criteria for balance, mobility and falls prevention programs were established in consultation with NSW falls prevention experts.
All inclusion decisions will be at the discretion of NSW Ministry of Health. Please note that NSW Ministry of Health reserves the right to amend these inclusion criteria at any time without notice.