As part of Men’s Health Week, the Australian Government is encouraging Men’s Sheds across New South Wales to apply for funding as part of the newest round of the National Men’s Shed Development Programme (NDSP).
Opening this week, Senator for New South Wales, Jim Molan AO, DSC, encouraged all Sheds in Gilmore to apply for Round 22 of the NDSP.
“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,” Senator Molan said.
“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,”
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
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said connection was the key to the success of the more than 1,000 Men’s Sheds around the country.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough for many Australians, and it is vitally important that Shed Members remained connected to their community during this time,” Minister Hunt said.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting Men’s Sheds, we provided $500,000 to Sheds around Australia in the latest round of NDSP grants and $6.4 million in grant funding to support Men’s Sheds since 2013.”
Regional Health Minister, Mark Coulton, said Men’s Sheds play a vital role in regional Australia, becoming 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,” Minister Coulton said.
“I am also pleased to announce that work will soon begin on the $1.5 million Regional Coordinators for Men’s Sheds Initiative, which helps Men’s Sheds to connect with local health services and promote health events for their members.”
Men’s Sheds Associations in WA, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland will be funded to introduce regional coordinators in those states.
The Australian Men’s Shed Association, which manages the NSDP, has also received funding under the Initiative to implement regional coordinators in NSW, the ACT, SA and the NT. Regional coordinators will be introduced in every state and territory.
Applications for the next round of Men’s Sheds grants is open until 26 July 2021. Those wanting to submit an application can visit https://mensshed.org/development-grants.
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