Draft:Swiss 8

Swiss 8 is an Australian health promotion charity that was founded in 2008 by combat Veterans. The organization focuses on mental health issues affecting veterans, proposing that factors like disconnection and loss of purpose contribute significantly instead of the main cause being PTSD they base this on their experiences.

Swiss 8 has been critical of the way the Department of Veterans Affairs and government have been managing veteran mental health and has publicly accused the Australian Defence Force of stealing interlectual property and giving it to Deloitte.

Swiss 8 aims to create a new approach to mental health care that is proactive, rather than reactive it has partnered with various Australian RSL's, The University of Newcastle, and veterans organisations to further its goals.

Swiss 8 is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-For Profits Commission (ACNC).

Controversy
Swiss 8 has been involved in a defamation lawsuit regarding alleged fundraising practices through the platform OnlyFans.

At the centre of the defamation trial is whether or not Swiss 8 received funds from the former employer that were raised on Only Fans  totaling $15,000

The Swiss 8 Pillars
Swiss 8 emphasizes eight core principles they believe contribute to good mental health, including purpose, movement, nutrition, mindfulness, sleep, personal growth, discipline, and community.

Recalibr8 App
Recalibr8 is a mobile application developed in collaboration with Swiss 8, the Recalibr8 app offers tools and resources based on the eight pillars to support mental well-beingthe app is made available to veterans for free.

The app underwent an evaluation by a PhD student from The University of Newcastle. The evaluation aimed to assess the effectiveness of Recalibr8 in supporting users in improving their mental health and well-being. The results of the evaluation have not been made public, and further research may be necessary to establish the efficacy of the app in promoting mental health and well-being

On July 3, 2023 an article appeared in The Daily Telegraph reavealing that Swiss 8 accused the Australian Defence Force of stealing IP relating to its Recalibr8 App and giving it to Deloitte.

Recalibr8 Workshop
Building on the Recalibr8 app, a workshop that aims to help veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life has been developed

Finke Desert Race
Swiss 8, collaborated with the Australian Defence Force, KTM, and other organizations to form a team consisting of both veterans and serving military members. The team participated in The Finke Deser Race event. The completion of the race was a public display intended to increase visibility for mental health challenges faced by former military personnel.

Why We Ride
KTM, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, engaged in a partnership with Swiss 8, to conduct a trail ride featuring the 2022 KTM Enduro motorcycle range. This event was part of a broader initiative known as the 'Why We Ride' content project, which aimed to highlight the mental health benefits associated with motorcycling. The collaborative venture sought to combine riding with the therapeutic effects of engaging in outdoor activities, thereby advocating for mental wellness through a motorcycling. There was a 'Why We Ride' content project that captured the entire experience

BBQ To Remember
These community barbecues have been organized to provide an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy a sausage sizzle and deepening connections within the community. The barbecues are scheduled throughout Veterans' Health Week and the lead up to Remembrance Day. The events are free and open to people of all ages and the entire community, not just veterans.