Across Australia, Men’s Sheds are places where local blokes can work on projects, make friends, and support each other through hard times.

As part of Men’s Health Week, Men’s Sheds across the ACT and New South Wales can apply for funding as part of the newest round of the National Men’s Shed Development Programme (NSDP), funded by the Australian Government Department of Health.

The NSDP is a competitive grants programme where Men’s Sheds and organisations supporting Men’s Sheds in their community can apply for funds to better respond to local needs.

The programme provides financial assistance to address Shed members’ health and wellbeing; delivers activities and programmes focusing on social determinants of health; and improves Shed facilities and sustainability.

Round 22 of the NSDP opened this week. Men’s Sheds can apply for financial support across the following funding categories:

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

The Australian Government has provided $500,000 to Sheds around Australia in the latest round of NSDP grants, and $6.4 million in grant funding to support Men’s Sheds since 2013.

“Men’s Sheds are friendly and inclusive settings where men can meet to work with tools and equipment, or just spend time together, to support each other’s mental and physical good health,” said Senator for New South Wales, Jim Molan AO, DSC.

“Our Government is committed to ensuring that even doing the pandemic, members can stay in touch and continue to provide meaningful contributions to their communities.”

There are more than 1,000 Men’s Sheds around Australia. Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the key to their success was connection to the local community.

Regional Health Minister, Mark Coulton, said Men’s Sheds were one of the most important regional organisations.

“Men’s Sheds provide a safe and friendly environment for men to gather and or work on meaningful projects, with the ultimate aim of improving the health and wellbeing of their members,” Mr Coulton said.

The $1.5 million Regional Coordinators for Men’s Sheds Initiative will help Men’s Sheds to connect with local health services and promote health events for their members.

The Australian Men’s Shed Association, which manages the NSDP, has received funding under the Initiative to implement regional coordinators in the ACT, NSW, SA, and the NT.

Men’s Sheds Associations in WA, Tasmania, Victoria, and Queensland will also be funded to introduce regional coordinators.

“Men’s Sheds are not just about fixing furniture or building toys, they are helping men and building communities,” the Australian Men’s Shed Association states. Or, as researcher Professor Barry Golding observed: “Men don’t talk face to face; they talk shoulder to shoulder.”

Applications are open until 26 July 2021. To submit an application, visit https://mensshed.org/development-grants.

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