Nearly half of all Australians will experience a mental disorder at some point in their lives. Among young people aged 16–24, research found that 38.8% had experienced a mental disorder within a 12-month period. And yet, even in 2026, mental health can still be difficult to talk about.
Anxiety disorders remain the most common group of mental disorders among Australians. But while the statistics remain confronting, some people are working to change the conversation. Elizabeth Murray, Head of Social Enterprise at MOOD Tea, is one of them.
Through MOOD, Liz and her team are turning an everyday ritual into an opportunity for connection, conversation and youth mental health impact.
This is Liz’s story and the work behind MOOD.
Every journey has a starting point. What was the moment that sparked the idea for a social enterprise?
“MOOD began with a confronting national reality: suicide is the leading cause of death for young Australians. That statistic, alongside conversations with mental health charities, highlighted the urgent need for stronger preventative approaches that support young people before they reach crisis point.”
“At the same time, we recognised the power of the advertising, marketing and media industry to influence culture and mobilise change. Through the generosity and collaboration of that community, MOOD was established as a values‑led social enterprise. Guided by growing evidence that early intervention creates better outcomes, we set out to create a product that takes a 360‑degree approach to mental health: blends that taste good, invite connection, and fund programs that help young people build resilience and thrive”.
For those just meeting you, what do you offer, and what impact are you creating?
“MOOD is a social enterprise tea brand, selling premium award-winning tea as a vehicle for connection and mental health impact. Every purchase helps fund programs that support youth mental health, while also encouraging conversations that reduce stigma. When someone chooses MOOD, they’re turning an everyday ritual into meaningful social change.”
Since launching in 2021, MOOD has helped fund 39 preventative programs across four partners, reaching more than 11,000 young people.
Was there a moment along the way that really brought it all home where you thought, ‘this is why we do what we do’?
“Visiting our charity partner BackTrack, in Armidale NSW, last year was a defining moment for me. Meeting the incredible team and spending time with the young people they support brought MOOD’s impact to life. These are kids who’ve faced significant adversity, yet with the right support and community‑based programs, their life trajectories are changing. Seeing that impact first hand was incredibly inspiring and reinforced why investing in preventative, place‑based services truly matters.”
Over the next few years, what are you building toward that feels most exciting?
“We’re excited by the growing strength of the social enterprise ecosystem, particularly through networks like SECNA. Seeing organisations collaborate, share knowledge and amplify impact is powerful, and it’s inspiring to watch social procurement continue to grow as more organisations align their purchasing with their values.”
“MOOD is focused on deepening partnerships, expanding impact, and contributing to a movement that proves business can be a force for systemic social change.”
“We are thrilled to share our most recent charity partnership with Yiliyapinya, a First Nations mental health charity based in QLD. MOOD has just funded a full year of their equine therapy program.” Read more about this exciting announcement on MOOD’s website.
How can readers go beyond just buying and actually become part of the change you’re creating?
“Start conversations. Check in on people. Create spaces where mental health can be talked about openly and without judgement.”
“Readers can also support social enterprises through their workplaces, advocate for social procurement, and champion organisations delivering preventative, community‑led solutions. Small, intentional actions, multiplied across a community, create real change.”
MOOD is a reminder that making a difference in someone’s life rarely requires a grand gesture. In reality, it can start with something as simple as a conversation over a cup of tea.
Ready to put your purchasing power to work? Explore MOOD’s range of teas, learn more about their impact and charity partners, or introduce MOOD to your workplace!
Visit mood.org.au and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Fast Facts
Location: Head Office in Eveleigh, Warehouse is in Rozelle (both in Sydney, NSW).
The Mission in 3 Words: Connect. Educate. Empower.
The Impact to Date: 11,212 young people reached across 39 programs and 4 partners since launching in 2021, with all funded programs supporting preventative initiatives.
About this series
SECNA's Member Spotlight Series showcases some of the many organisations, like MOOD, who are using business as a force for good. From circular economy initiatives to employment pathways and community-led solutions, these stories highlight the impact of social enterprises across Australia.
Looking for more purpose-led businesses?
Visit SECNA's Social Enterprise Directory today to discover and support more social enterprises creating impact in communities across Australia.
