Helen Polley (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Men's health is a vital topic, often overlooked in the rush of daily life. This Father's Day, let's make a priority to reach out to our fathers, our brothers, our grandfathers and our uncles and encourage open conversation about physical and mental wellbeing. Investing in health isn't just about medical check-ups. It's also about supporting each other emotionally and mentally by openly discussing health issues so we can break down the stigmas and let our loved ones know they don't have to face these challenges alone.

Yesterday I met with the Special Envoy for Men's Health, the member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi, to talk about how we can inspire men to invest in their own health and wellbeing and have a regular appointment with their GP. A simple conversation can be the first step towards healthier habits and a brighter future, a more connected future, for the men we care about. There are so many options out there for men to connect and get involved, through the fantastic men's sheds program, through local sporting clubs or through community groups.

So, this Father's Day, have a conversation with those you love and encourage them to put their health first and centre to ensure that they have a long and happy life. And for all those partners out there, all of us who are trying to engage and make sure men are reaching out: what they need to know is that they don't have to do it alone. If there is a health issue, if they have some mental health issues—they have anxiety, they're feeling depressed—the most important thing is to reach out and let them know that they are loved, they're supported and they don't have to do it alone. It's very important. I wish all the fathers out there a wonderful, happy Father's Day.