- Published:
- Tuesday 12 September 2017
More men around Victoria will be building new friendships, skills and community connections, thanks to almost $1 million in Andrews Labor Government support for new and expanded men’s sheds.
The funding will go towards the construction of 13 new sheds and the refurbishment of 10 others across regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne.
Men’s sheds improve the health and wellbeing of participants by promoting social inclusion.
Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos and Member for Eltham Vicki Ward today met members of the Eltham group, which will receive $60,000 towards their much-needed new shed.
The Eltham Men’s Shed currently operates from three small facilities and has almost no workshop space for its 45 members.
The Eltham shedders have helped many local groups including the Wurundjeri people, Syrian refugees, Nillumbik Shire Council, Eltham Rotary and RSL as well as retirement villages and schools.
The Labor Government provides ongoing annual funding of $1 million to the men’s shed program. This year the Victorian Men’s Shed Association has also been granted $105,000 over two years to employ a field officer to improve the viability of men’s sheds
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“Men’s sheds play a vital role in local communities throughout the state as safe, friendly and inclusive spaces where people can learn new skills, catch up with mates and forge strong ties with others.”
“We’re proud to support the movement that gives back to the local community as well as improving men’s health and wellbeing.”
Quote attributable to member for Eltham Vicki Ward
"For a long time the Eltham Men's Shed has been without a permanent home for the great work they do in our community. This grant will be an important support in giving them the facilities they need.”
Quote attributable to the Victorian Men’s Shed Association Executive Officer Ric Blackburn
“We know that men's sheds enhance the health and well-being of both individuals and communities as a whole by reducing social isolation and promoting social inclusion. These grants will foster and strengthen community groups across the state, especially in hard-hit rural areas.”