Parliamentary benches made way for planks and push-ups as Northern Territory politicians Jinson Anto Charls and Steve Edgington took a break from their formal duties to join The Push-Up Challenge 2025. With Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro keeping count from the sidelines, the pair’s brief exercise moment doubled as a public gesture in support of mental health awareness.
The Push-Up Challenge, running from 4 to 26 June, encourages Australians to complete 3,214 push-ups—one for each life lost to suicide in 2023. Whether participants complete the full count, halve it, or substitute with other activities, the campaign is designed to be inclusive and accessible while sparking vital conversations about mental health.
“The number isn’t random,” said Charls. “It’s a daily reminder of those we’ve lost and the need to do better. Steve and I squeezed in a quick push-up session during Sittings with our Chief Minister keeping tally. We’re behind the challenge this year to raise awareness for better mental health for all Australians.”
Partnering officially with Headspace in 2025, the initiative will raise funds for mental health organisations including Lifeline, The Push for Better Foundation, and Headspace itself. Each push-up represents both a life lost and a commitment to ensuring better support systems for those at risk.
Minister Charls, who represents Sanderson, brings personal knowledge to the table—his career in nursing and mental health care informing much of his public role. Minister Edgington, whose portfolios include Health and Mental Health, joined in to publicly back the challenge and reinforce the Territory’s broader focus on mental well-being.
The campaign is not limited to the political class. Among those stepping up is celebrity chef Matt Golinski, who has been outspoken about the emotional toll experienced within the hospitality industry. Golinski’s participation is rooted in personal loss, giving added weight to his advocacy.
The 2024 edition of the challenge saw over 218,000 participants and raised more than $12 million. Organisers are hoping to surpass that in 2025, with thousands of individuals, schools, businesses, and community groups already signed up across the country.
More information, including how to join or donate, is available at thepushupchallenge.com.au.
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