Stepping up: Why the Better Challenge is the ultimate workplace initiative

Looking for a simple way to boost workplace wellbeing and strengthen team culture while also making a genuine difference in the lives of children with cancer? The Better Challenge is helping organisations across Australia do exactly that. 

Held throughout Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September, The Kids’ Cancer Project’s Better Challenge invites workplaces to get moving, connect with colleagues and raise funds to invest into cutting-edge scientific research.  

Whether your team chooses to walk or run, every kilometre and dollar helps contribute to a future where more children survive cancer with fewer long-term side effects. 

For organisations, the benefits go well beyond fundraising. 

Whatever industry or location, the Better Challenge creates a shared goal that brings people together – regardless of where they work. It encourages healthy habits, boosts morale, strengthens workplace connections and provides a meaningful way for employees to contribute to a cause bigger than themselves. 

For flexible workspace provider WOTSO, who have been a proud supporter of The Kids’ Cancer Project for many years, the challenge has become an annual fixture that engages both staff and members across Australia and New Zealand. 

"We've got over 30 sites around Australia and New Zealand, and it's something where they don't have to be with us in Sydney to participate," says Regional Manager, Tilly Eder. "They can participate with their colleagues or with the members on site." 

The unity of the challenge creates a ripple effect far beyond the workplace. 

"We have about 7,000 members across our sites – that's 7,000 different people that we can impact and talk to about what The Kids' Cancer Project is doing,” added CEO Jessie Glew. “That impact is huge. 

"The remoteness of our teams can be challenging so doing something like this brings all of our teams together. We've got teams that want to raise the most, walk the most and get the most members involved. A bit of healthy competition is always good." 

For Lauren Reid, EA and Office Manager at Head Office, the appeal is its simplicity and inclusivity. 

"I love that so many people get involved, even if they're not usually super into walking and running. There's this camaraderie amongst everyone. You're intentionally putting time aside, coming together and doing something where you feel that you're part of something bigger."