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At a recent SODA (Systems, Ops, Digital, Admin) session, entitled “Creating Culture and Wellbeing”, attendees came together to kickstart their offices’ employee experience offering. Hosted by Ray White head of organisational development, Natalie Hortz, the session uncovered how to bring authentic, tailored wellbeing initiatives to a real estate office - no matter the size, location and priorities.

Attendees are already bringing this to life in Ray White offices across the country. We’ve broken down the session takeaways into five key actions and some inspiration from SODA attendees to support you in building a culture of mental, physical and social wellbeing:

1. Prioritise support for mental wellbeing and resilience

With research from Black Dog Institute showing every dollar invested in mental health initiatives returns $4 in improved productivity, implementing structured support systems is crucial. This includes Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), Mental Health First Aid training - especially for people managers - and creating spaces which encourage open dialogue around stress management and wellbeing. The old adage rings true: a problem shared is a problem halved.

We have an R U OK Ambassador and Official Mental Health First Aider, Chadwick Harding, in our team who works in the office every day and openly reminds the team they can chat to him whenever.
Claudia Johnston, Ray White Ascot, QLD

2. Celebrate the whole person

In a targets-driven industry like real estate, it’s easy to focus on the big ticket professional achievements. However, by recognising staff efforts and celebrating personal milestones, whether it's a birthday or a personal best, you take important steps to building psychological safety within your business. When people feel seen and valued as complete humans, not just employees, they're more likely to innovate and engage. Simple practices like gratitude boxes and social media shout-outs reinforce this culture of appreciation.

We set and share personal and professional goals with each other at the start of the year and review quarterly as a team to celebrate/support each other through the achievement of these.
Sharni Lloyd, Ray White Nagambie, VIC

3. Physical wellbeing isn't just about individual health - it's about organisational energy

Encouraging healthy habits as the norm inspires a more physically and mentally healthy culture. Switching to walking meetings, offering healthy snack options and coming together for team fitness challenges like STEPtember are a few suggestions that resonated with the SODA session attendees.

In Adelaide, office manager Sabrina Furlan’s session takeaways included her plans to “start small groups, like a run club or yoga sessions, ensuring there's something for everyone to engage in" at the Ray White Prospect office.

Physical activity, especially when done as a group, relieves stress, energises our minds and offers a new opportunity to connect beyond the office walls.

4. Create connection champions

Social connection literally rewires our brains for resilience. Take inspiration from Teena van Akkeren, Ray White Townsville business operations manager, and her approach to building community by "creating our own group of self-nominated people from all areas of our business to come together” to bring their culture to life.

Incorporating monthly or quarterly team-building events into the office calendar is an important pillar for wellbeing. No matter your office’s size or priorities, there are impactful options which office champion(s) can tailor to suit your team: from hosting a potluck team breakfast to engaging in charity drives (Biggest Morning Tea, STEPtember, Little Ray of Giving) and local community events.

We have built a strong community connection to our local sports, arts, and wellbeing groups via sponsorships, donations, fundraising and volunteering. Getting involved is where giving back fills your cup, not just committing money.
Cassie Flinn, Ray White Port Douglas, QLD

5. Build diverse channels for engagement

Modern workplace connection requires multiple and consistent touchpoints. Creating dedicated online communities through platforms like WhatsApp or Google Spaces enables continuous engagement beyond physical office spaces. Informal networks such as interest groups for dog lovers, foodies or travel enthusiasts can significantly boost workplace satisfaction and retention by fostering organic connections through shared passions.

The science is clear: when we invest in workplace wellbeing, we're not just being nice – we're being smart. A culture of wellbeing isn't built overnight, but through consistent, intentional actions that show our people they matter. These five pillars provide a framework for creating workplaces where both people and performance flourish.

For guidance and support in improving your office’s wellbeing and culture offering, including organising Mental Health First Aid for your team, please reach out to our Together team at together@raywhite.com.

Do you have a workplace culture success or great wellbeing initiative to share? We want to hear from you!

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