Creating space for men's health |
|
|
Health and wellbeing can look different for everyone. Creating space to talk about these differences and how we consider them when providing healthcare is important to building a healthier future for everyone.
One area where more conversation is now happening – and still greatly needed – is men’s health.
Men’s Health Week (9–15 June) is an important reminder of the health and wellbeing challenges boys and men face and an opportunity to talk about them.
At the heart of our Future Health Strategy is a commitment to keeping all people in NSW healthy and well. This week encourages us to consider how to best support men’s physical, mental and emotional health. |
| |
|
We know that men are still less likely to reach out for help or engage with healthcare services than women. That’s why continuing to raise awareness and promote help-seeking behaviour is so important.
If you know someone who could benefit from a conversation, a check-in, or a referral, please reach out to them and, if needed, connect them to the services that can help. Today also marks Thank a First Responder Day. Today and every day, we extend our sincere thanks to our incredible paramedic workforce. Your courage, skill and compassion are seen and appreciated by the communities you serve, and by all of us across the health system. We are also grateful to our partners in NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, the State Emergency Service, and all volunteer services. Thank you.
Finally, please join me in congratulating our colleagues in health who have been recognised in the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List. These awards acknowledge outstanding community contributions and distinguished public service, and recognise the diverse and significant impacts made by people across the state. You can view the list of NSW Health recipients on our website.
|
|
|
Kind regards,
Susan Pearce AM
Secretary, NSW Health |
|
|
Mervyn Holmes-Wighton and Daniel Kelly are passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal men.
Together, they lead the MASTERs Program (Men’s Assessment, Screening, Talking, Education and Referral) – a free health screening program designed for Aboriginal men in the Western NSW Local Health District, but all open to all men.
“Too often, our men wait until it’s too late to seek medical care. We wanted to change that,” said Daniel, Aboriginal Health Education Officer. |
|
|
Mervyn Holmes-Wighton, Jack Daley, Uncle Brian Dowd, Clayton Anderson, and Daniel Kelly |
|
The program brings health checks out of clinical settings and into the community. “We meet them where they are,” said Mervyn, Aboriginal Health Manager – Northern Sector.
“It’s not just about screenings – it’s about starting a conversation. We sit down with them, have a yarn, and if needed, connect them to their GP or other multidisciplinary services.” Daniel said the impacts go beyond test results.
“The real value is helping men recognise their own needs,” said Daniel. “It’s about self-esteem, community connection, and making health something we talk about openly.” |
|
|
“Seeing a man understand and take control of his health – that’s the most rewarding part.” |
|
|
In focus with Dr Murray Wright |
Q: Some men keep their mental health issues hidden. What are some common signs that someone might be struggling with their mental health and what can you do to support them?
A: If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and ask. Pick a quiet moment and check in with a relaxed, genuine question like, “How are you going, really?” Mention what you’ve noticed. If they’re not ready to talk, let them know you’re here when they are. If they do open up, listen without judgment. You don’t need to “fix” things – just being there matters. Encourage them to get support if needed. Importantly, check in again. A follow-up message or coffee can go a long way. There are some great support services available. A few are listed below: |
|
|
In-person/community support: Telephone support services: - Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
- MensLine – 1300 78 99 78
- NSW Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511
- Headspace – 1800 650 890
- 13YARN (Aboriginal support line) – 13 92 76
You don’t have to be an expert, just a mate who cares. Dr Murray Wright NSW Chief Psychiatrist |
| |
|
One-stop shop for prostate cancer care
|
In a NSW first, St Vincent’s Health Network has opened the NELUNE Men’s Health Centre, offering free, integrated care for prostate cancer patients. |
|
|
Urologist Dr Ben Namdarian said integrated prostate cancer centres are rare in Australia. The new centre will be a “game-changer”. “Whether you’re in the public or private system, patients deserve equal access to high-quality care, particularly in precision medicine and allied health,” said Dr Namdarian.
“Many of the cutting-edge technologies that offer better outcomes are currently only available in the private system. But at this centre, public patients can access the same support and advanced technologies at no cost.”
The centre provides a “one-stop shop” with multidisciplinary services. “It can be difficult to coordinate all different specialised services, and patients need different support at different stages of treatment. “This centre brings all necessary care together to improve recovery chances. Research tells us that alongside diagnosis and treatment, access to allied health services and social supports lead to better outcomes,” he said. |
| |
|
Lights and sirens can be overwhelming for all the family, especially children. After baby Sadie received the all-clear, paramedic Lachlan checked in on big sister Millie. His small act of kindness made a lasting impression on the whole family.
This Thank a First Responder Day, we’re celebrating paramedics like Lachlan, enriching the health of NSW in millions of ways every day. |
|
|
Phil Gilroy is a HealthShare NSW chef at the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH) in the Northern Sydney Local Health District. |
|
|
“My food philosophy is simple. I want to produce meals which are not overly complicated and contribute to the communal atmosphere. I like to work with the patients to produce their meals.”
Phil was recently honoured with a Parliamentary Community Recognition Statement for his outstanding contribution to the AYAH community.
A short excerpt from the statement delivered in Parliament reads “Chef Phil ensures that every meal meets the nutritional and texture needs of patients while still honouring their personal preferences and those of their families and carers. He creates moments of joy, comfort, and connection. His fresh-cook menu isn’t just about nourishment, it’s about care, flexibility and dignity.” The award came as a surprise to Phil.
“I just feel like I’m doing my job,” he said. |
| |
|
“If we can make a patient or family member feel welcomed knowing that the food we offer is made with love, then we have done our job.” |
|
|
Winter is officially here. Protect yourself and others from influenza this winter by getting your flu vaccine and encouraging your friends, family and community to get one too. Influenza is serious, but it isn’t as scary if you’re vaccinated. Getting a flu vaccine is quick, easy and recommended for everyone aged six months and over. |
|
|
Visit the healthdirect website to find a location near you. For more information about respiratory illness, head to the NSW Health website.
If you or someone you care about needs instant health advice, treatment or care, call healthdirect for free on 1800 022 222. You’ll speak to a registered nurse who will help you get the care you need. They can find you a nearby doctor or pharmacy, connect you to a virtual GP, or direct you to the nearest urgent care service. Save this number: healthdirect 1800 022 222. |
| |
|
Born in Vietnam, Van “Skinny” Nguyen began working as a cleaner at Westmead Hospital in June 1980 with help from a Catholic support service. “They dropped me off at the hospital and never came back to get me!” he joked. |
|
|
| Over his 44 years at Westmead, he has become a beloved member of the hospital community. “I get paid to do what I love and have a laugh,” he said. “My colleagues, doctors and nurses are like family.”
Currently assigned to the radiation oncology unit, Skinny has worked across many departments doing everything from infectious cleans to deep carpet and floor cleans. But it’s not just his thorough cleaning skills that make him stand out.
“You certainly feel his presence and spirit. His smile and laugh are contagious and his ability to find the positives out of most situations is admirable,” said Brendan Mann, Associate Director, Support Services Optimisation, HealthShare NSW. |
|
|
Now nearing 70, Skinny stays active. He walks daily and believes in nourishing the body with simple, healthy meals.
"A good pho is number one!" International Cleaners Day (15 June) is an opportunity to celebrate dedicated cleaners like Skinny across our healthcare system. Take a moment to thank the people who keep your workplace safe and clean. |
|
|
Kickstart your nursing or midwifery career with GradStart |
If you are completing your nursing or midwifery degree between 1 June 2025 and 31 May 2026, GradStart could be your next step.
The program offers a choice of ideal work location, including picturesque rural or regional areas, and ongoing professional development in NSW Health. Graduates may also be eligible for scholarships and relocation support. Watch the video below to hear from Emily Giltinan about how GradStart has supported her nursing career. Applications for GradStart 2026 open on 17 June 2025. Visit the NSW Health website for more information. |
|
|
Enriching life through service |
For Dr Chris Mah, service has always been an integral part of his life. Chris is a Career Medical Officer in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District. He recently returned from his second medical mission to the Philippines. As part of a medical team of 50 volunteers, he provided free medical services to local communities over a five-day period. “One of the most enjoyable parts of the mission is just being around people who are similarly minded in terms of serving,” he said. |
|
|
This year, the team saw over 2,000 patients, many of whom couldn’t afford treatment and waited a long time to receive medical attention.
Chris shared the story of a legally blind patient who received a pair of prescription glasses.
“The patient was moved to tears at being able to see clearly and safely move around,” said Chris.
“It’s humbling, but also very encouraging seeing how grateful and appreciative people are by the services we provide. “It reminds us of how fortunate we are.” Although it has only been a few weeks since the mission ended, Chris is already planning for the next one.
He encourages others to volunteer and give back to their communities. “It enriches your life, and the lives of people around you.” |
| Volunteers loading equipment and supplies |
|
|
From the Critical Intelligence Unit
The Critical Intelligence Unit (CIU) Evidence Digest highlights transformative clinical innovations.
Recent features include: RSV preventives, digital determinants of youth mental health, Alzheimer’s disease blood biomarkers and trajectories of muscle strength, and ED digital check-in and triage kiosks
CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumours, remote patient monitoring for COVID-19, AI evaluation of clinical guideline quality, extended CT angiography during acute code stroke.
Subscribe for Wednesday morning updates or explore the CIU's living evidence table on AI in healthcare.
|
| Our Pathway to Net Zero
NSW Health has launched its first Net Zero Roadmap 2025-2030. The Roadmap sets a vision for NSW Health to become a leading modern, high-quality, low carbon and climate resilient health system. There are lots of ways you can help reduce waste and emissions and we have practical support to help you make changes on your ward, department or clinic.
Read more on the NSW Health website about how you can contribute to our net zero target in your workplace. |
|
|
NSW Health acknowledges Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of NSW and pays respect to Elders past, present and future. |
|
|
Feeling social? Follow NSW Health |
| |
|
|
.png)
