Employment1 Apr 2025Simon Druery

10 of the 'Coolest' Wellbeing Benefits offered by Australian Companies

In today’s workplace, wellbeing is no longer a ‘nice to have’ — it’s essential. From burnout prevention to work-life balance and mental health support, employees are looking for more than just a pay cheque. And the best Australian companies are responding with creative, generous, and sometimes surprising wellbeing perks.

Here are 10 standout examples of wellbeing benefits that go beyond the basics — and show us what’s possible when organisations truly value their people.

1. Canva – The Epic Experience

After five years at Canva, employees receive a three-month paid sabbatical to pursue something meaningful — whether that’s travel, study, or simply rest. Plus, they get a generous budget to help fund their ‘epic experience’.

Source:  Life at Canva – Ways of Working & Benefits

2. Atlassian – Digital First, Human Always

Atlassian offers full remote flexibility, mental health resources, wellbeing allowances, and Recharge Days. After five years, staff are rewarded with an extra paid holiday — just one part of their thoughtful approach to sustainable work.

Source: Atlassian Careers – Benefits

3. Commonwealth Bank – Thrive Program

CBA’s Thrive program includes access to confidential counselling, wellness resources, gym discounts and financial support. Employees can also take purchased leave or apply for study assistance.

Source:  Commonwealth Bank – Employee Benefits

4. Adobe – Wellness Days for All

Regular Global Days Off are just one part of Adobe’s generous leave policy. Their culture of inclusion and mental health support helped them earn recognition on Australia’s Best Workplaces™ list in 2023.

Sources:
Adobe Benefits – Australia
Great Place to Work – Australia’s Best Workplaces in Technology 2023

5. Qantas – Travel the World (For Less)

Qantas employees receive heavily discounted flights and travel packages for themselves and their families — an incredible benefit that supports rest, fun, and connection.

Source: Quantas Employee Benefits

6. Patagonia – Surf-Friendly Policies

Patagonia encourages staff to surf during the day, aligning with their outdoor lifestyle brand and promoting physical activity. It’s part of a larger culture that supports environmental advocacy and work-life balance.

Source: Patagonia Culture Design Canvas

7. MDA National – Sustainable Commute Incentives

MDA, a Sydney-based medical defence organisation, rewards employees with $10 each day they opt for public transport, carpooling, or cycling instead of driving. It’s a creative initiative to reduce emissions and support greener living.

Source: MDA National – Sustainability & Impact

8. Bridgit – 'Spin the Wheel' Incentives

Bridgit, a non-bank lender, has implemented a 'Spin the Wheel' initiative to reward employees who live their values. Prizes include unforgettable experiences like shark diving, V8 racing, and helicopter rides — giving high performers truly unique rewards.

Source: Forbes Australia – Workplace Perks

9. Thinkerbell – Dartboards and Biophilic Rooms

Thinkerbell’s Melbourne HQ includes dartboards with real prizes and plant-filled biophilic rooms that encourage both play and calm. It’s a quirky, sensory-rich environment that helps boost creativity and employee wellbeing.

Source: The Guardian – Gen Z Return to Office

10. LawConnect – Experiential Rewards on Water

LawConnect offers employees a chance to participate in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race — one of the world’s toughest and most prestigious ocean races. They also host yacht parties and family sailing days, creating bonding opportunities that are anything but ordinary.

Source: Rolex Sydney Hobart – LawConnect

These 10 companies have set the bar high, showing how creative and thoughtful wellbeing benefits can make a real difference in employee satisfaction and engagement. As workplaces continue to evolve, it's exciting to see what new benefits emerge.

What’s the coolest wellbeing benefit you've heard of? Let us know!

Article by Simon Druery

Simon Druery is Director and Brand Strategist at Belong Creative. What gets him jumping out of bed each day is helping business owners and marketers craft brands that people want to belong to. When he’s not working you can find him travelling Australia in the family caravan and enjoying a tawny port by the fire.