The NSW Government is providing $75,000 to men’s health organisation Mr Perfect to support community gatherings designed to reduce social isolation and encourage conversations about mental health.
The funding will help the not-for-profit organisation continue its regular community barbecues, which bring men together in informal settings to share a meal, meet others and build social connections.
A recent barbecue in Woonona gave local men an opportunity to connect with others in their community. The NSW Government says the funding will support Mr Perfect’s community-led approach, with the aim of creating welcoming spaces where men can talk openly and seek help when needed.
While the gatherings are centred on social connection rather than formal mental health treatment, volunteers and staff can refer attendees to specialist services when appropriate. These can include Lifeline, emergency health services, local community mental health providers and general practitioners.
Health Minister Ryan Park said strong social connections could contribute to 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,” Park said.
“This funding recognises the valuable contribution community organisations make in supporting mental health and connecting people with help early.”
Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said the government was focusing on prevention and early intervention for men experiencing mental ill-health, suicide risk and isolation.
The government said it had invested nearly $1.4 million in community-led men’s mental health and suicide prevention initiatives since taking office. It also held its first Men’s Mental Health Forum in 2024.
The $75,000 commitment forms part of a wider $112.3 million increase in mental health funding announced in the NSW Government’s 2026-27 Budget.
That broader package includes $43.3 million over four years for Lifeline’s 13 11 14 crisis telephone service, along with text and webchat support. A further $64.8 million will extend services under the NSW-Commonwealth Government National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, while $4.3 million will support mental health peak bodies.
Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said community programmes could help address some of the barriers that prevent men from discussing mental health concerns.
“We understand for many men, starting a conversation about mental health isn’t easy,” Stuart said.
“Community programs, like Mr Perfect, create more opportunities for men to connect and build stronger networks, making it easier for those conversations to begin.”
Mr Perfect CEO John Mooney welcomed the funding, saying the organisation’s gatherings were intended to provide connection for men who may otherwise remain isolated.
The organisation currently runs more than 40 monthly gatherings across Australia, according to Mooney, with the events providing opportunities for men to meet regularly and have conversations in a relaxed environment.
The funding comes as governments and community organisations continue to place greater emphasis on early support and social connection as part of men’s mental health initiatives. For participants requiring professional assistance, the barbecues can provide a pathway towards existing health and crisis services rather than replacing them.
Information about mental health services and programmes is available through NSW Health. Further information about Mr Perfect is available through Mr Perfect.
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