Men’s Shed boosted by $400,000

AUSTRALIAN men looking to pick up tools and have a chinwag now have greater resources after the Men’s Shed community received $400,000 from the Federal Government.

More than 100 sheds around the country could buy tools and equipment, undertake community projects and maintain and develop buildings through round 17 of the Government’s National Shed Development Programme.

The sheds also offer a space for men to talk about their

‘‘ MEN’S SHEDS HAVE BEEN A REAL SUCCESS STORY IN PROMOTING HEALTH AND WELLBEING FOR AUSTRALIAN MEN.

MINISTER FOR HEALTH GREG HUNT

health and mental wellbeing.

“Men are often the last ones to make their health and wellbeing a priority,” Minister for Health Greg Hunt said.

“(And) feeling part of a social group is important to our emotional and mental health and Men’s Sheds provide men with an opportunity for companionship and support within their community.

“Men’s Sheds have been a real success story in promoting health and wellbeing for Australian men and I am delighted to award these grants.”

The grants – awarded across the categories of health and wellbeing events, shed improvements and equipment – are a part of a $5.1 million, three-year boost to the Men’s Shed movement.