Men's Health

Willcox seconded the motion, citing his role as patron of the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. Willcox noted that suicide is the 15th leading cause of death in Australia and that male suicides have increased significantly over the past decade. Willcox proposed amendments to restore Medicare mental health sessions from 10 to 20 per year and to allow mental health plans to cover two calendar years. Willcox also called for increased funding for local suicide prevention training programs.

Mitchell supported the motion, highlighting the government's $32 million investment in men's health initiatives. As co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Men's Sheds, he emphasised the role of these community spaces in combating isolation and supporting mental wellbeing. Mitchell cited local examples, such as fishing events for mental health and programs for veterans, to illustrate the impact of grassroots support. Mitchell argued that these investments help create a culture where speaking up is seen as strength.

Haines congratulated Repacholi on his new role and focused on the mental health of new fathers. Haines noted that while postnatal depression is well-recognised in women, it affects 5 to 10 per cent of fathers, yet they are often excluded from prenatal health surveillance. Haines argued that the current system misses opportunities for early intervention during pregnancy. Haines proposed introducing Medicare-listed mental health check-ups for expecting fathers, similar to a model used in the UK, to improve outcomes for men and their families.

Smith supported the motion, highlighting the high suicide rates among men, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men. Smith criticised the stigma that prevents men from seeking help and noted that suicide has become a leading cause of child death. Smith reiterated the government's investments in Medicare and mental health services, including headspace centres. Smith emphasised the importance of breaking down barriers to healthcare access, especially in regional areas.

Birrell thanked Repacholi and highlighted the impact of suicide in his electorate. Birrell criticised the reduction of Medicare mental health sessions from 20 to 10, calling it a regrettable step. Birrell argued that positive mental health involves physical activity, engagement in the arts, and having a sense of purpose through work. Birrell suggested that supporting community sport and arts infrastructure could help improve mental health outcomes for men.

Burnell supported the motion, noting that silence and stigma cost lives, with suicide being the leading cause of death for men aged 15 to 44. Burnell detailed the government's $32 million investment in men's health, including funding for Movember and grassroots organisations. Burnell emphasised the broader context of $8.5 billion in Medicare strengthening and over $1 billion for mental health services. Burnell argued that these investments help dismantle stereotypes and provide accessible support for men across Australia.

Conaghan commended the motion and highlighted the disparity in funding between women's and men's health, noting that men's health received only $70 million compared to nearly $900 million for women's health in the budget. Conaghan shared a personal story of a friend who died by suicide to illustrate the suddenness and impact of such losses. Conaghan called for greater bipartisan cooperation to address men's mental health and urged men to talk to each other and seek help.