More older disadvantaged males will soon have access to greater social support, with 16 new Men’s Sheds due to be established soon throughout South Australia, Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia.
Money for the new sheds will come from a federal government grant of more than $120 000 which was recently provided to the Australian Men’s Shed Association. The cash injection will fund a total of 20 projects under round one of the Commonwealth’s Shed Development financial assistance program.
Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, said Men’s Sheds play an important role by providing meeting places for men to stay connected within the community, while helping their physical and mental wellbeing.
“Based on the traditional backyard shed, Men’s Sheds provide a relaxed place for men to meet and continue a hobby, learn new skills, or just pop in for a chat and a cuppa,” Mr Snowdon said.
“Isolation, loneliness and depression are major health issues for many Australian men, which is compounded by the make culture not talking about feelings or emotions and not taking as active an interest in their own health and wellbeing as they should.
“Men’s Sheds can play a significant role in reducing these problems by connecting men with each other and their communities without pressure. Most sheds also undertake community work, so there’s an opportunity for men to be involved in something meaningful and make a positive contribution to the community.”
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, and Federal Member for Port Adelaide, Mark Butler, welcomed more than $3,300 in funding for the new Zebra Finch Men’s Group at Kura Yerlo in Largs Bay.
“The Zebra Finch Men’s Group is an Aboriginal group focusing on cultural art and craft and intergenerational teaching and learning to pass on the skills of artefact making, with a strong focus on learning and participation,” Mr Butler said.
“I am delighted that this Australian Government grant will help purchase tools, equipment and a computer for this terrific local organisation.”
More funding will be made available in the second round of the Men’s Shed Development Program, due to open later this month.
Funding for the 20 Men’s Sheds was provided under round one of the Shed Development Program. Under this program, the Australian Government is providing $750,000 over three years through the Australian Men’s Shed Association to provide financial assistance to eligible men’s sheds across the country.
For information on how to apply, click here
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