The Minns Labor Government is strengthening support for men’s health and wellbeing, with a $75,000 investment to support Mr. Perfect.
Mr. Perfect is a not-for-profit organisation which aims to promote positive health outcomes by connecting men through regular community barbeques.
Over the weekend, Mr Perfect held a BBQ in Woonona, giving local men the opportunity to get together and enjoy a meal with others in their community.
This funding will enable Mr Perfect to continue to deliver this community-led initiative, helping create safe, welcoming spaces for conversation, reduce social isolation, and encourage men to seek early mental health support.
While the barbeques provide an informal setting for connection, volunteers and staff can, where appropriate, refer attendees to specialist services such as Lifeline, emergency health services, local community mental health providers, or their general practitioner.
This funding builds on the Minns Labor Government’s additional $112.3 million investment in mental health services, as part of the 2026-2027 Budget. This includes:
- $43.3 million over four years for Lifeline to deliver its 13 11 14 crisis telephone line, as well as text and webchat services
- $64.8 million to extend services under the NSW-Commonwealth Government National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement
- $4.3 million to support mental health peak bodies.
More information about mental health services and programs can be found on the NSW Health website at Mental health. To learn more about Mr. Perfect, visit Mr Perfect.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“Strong community and social connections play an important role in supporting emotional and psychological wellbeing.
“I was lucky enough to attend my local Mr Perfect BBQ over the weekend where I was able to see how important these community events are.
“This funding recognises the valuable contribution community organisations make in supporting mental health and connecting people with help early.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:
“Men experiencing mental ill-health, suicide risk, and isolation deserve practical support. That’s why we’re so passionate about supporting fantastic organisations like Mr. Perfect.
“The Minns Labor Government has made men’s mental health a core priority since day one, holding the first Ment’s Mental Health Forum in 2024 and investing nearly $1.4 million in community-led men’s mental health and suicide prevention initiatives.
“Today’s announcement reaffirms our commitment to taking action on men’s health through prevention and early intervention programs.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart:
“We understand for many men, starting a conversation about mental health isn’t easy. Community programs, like Mr. Perfect, create more opportunities for men to connect and build stronger networks, making it easier for those conversations to begin.
“By backing community mental health organisations, we’re helping to create welcoming and familiar spaces for people to speak up, overcome barriers, and improve access to early support systems.”
Quotes attributable to CEO of Mr Perfect Inc John Mooney:
“We at Mr Perfect Inc want to extend our gratitude to Minister Park for his support and commitment to bettering the mental health of Men and their families and loved ones all across New South Wales.
“We’re more than just a BBQ – we’re building community and connection for men who might otherwise stay silent about their struggles.
“By hosting over 40 monthly gatherings nationwide, we’ve created safe spaces where meaningful conversations happen naturally, helping men forge purpose and meaning even amidst challenging times.”
