Men’s Sheds continue to grow in popularity and local groups can improve their sheds and equipment through Round 21 of the National Men’s Shed Development Programme.

Funded by the Morrison-McCormack Government, this round of Men’s Shed grants will prioritise applications with a strong health, wellbeing or safety emphasis, in acknowledgement of the impact of COVID-19 and the needs of sheds in the recovery.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said Men’s Sheds had provided vital mental health support for locals this year.

“This year Men’s Sheds, more than ever, have been important places where small groups of people have come together to talk and work on meaningful projects together,” he said.

“Doing regular activities with people around us is one way we can support our mental health.

“This funding round will provide great opportunities for Men’s Sheds to deliver events, wellbeing initiatives or simply improve sheds, tools and equipment. I encourage local groups to apply for a grant by 27 November.”

Funding categories for Round 21 of the National Men’s Shed Development Programme include:

• Category 1: Health, Wellbeing, and Events – $8,000 maximum
• Category 2: Shed Improvements – $8,000 maximum
• Category 3: Equipment – $5,000 maximum.

Minister for Health Greg Hunt said this new funding round would provide financial support to assist in both setting up and maintaining Men’s Sheds across Australia.

“Since 2013, the Coalition Government has provided $5.4 million to support men’s sheds across Australia as they provide great safe places for men to talk and help each other,” he said.

“This new funding round will provide financial support to assist in both setting up and maintaining Men’s Sheds across Australia.”

Applications for the current funding round close Friday 27 November 2020. For more information visit the Australian Men’s Shed Association website.

Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government Mark Coulton said sheds play a vital role in regional Australia.

“In many parts of regional Australia, local Men’s Sheds are fast becoming one of the most important regional organisations, one where members make connections and serve their community,” he said.

“This new grant round means more funding for sheds and local communities.”

The 2020-21 Federal Budget included a record investment of $5.7 billion for mental health services and suicide prevention. Some of the programs include $76.1 million to support the mental health of Australians affected by bushfires; $64.1 million to support suicide prevention; and $100.8 million to provide an additional 10 Medicare-subsidised psychological therapy sessions each year nationally under Better Access.

Media Contact:

Liz Spry – 0418 928 744