The Andrews Labor Government is helping one of Melbourne’s most multicultural municipalities open its doors to a new men’s shed.
Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos toured the new $44,000 Western Suburbs Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Men’s Shed, which will become a hub for programs that engage men of different ages.
A welfare coordinator and English language services will be available to the “shedders” through the Australia Light Foundation, along with programs to encourage young men to learn practical skills, including car repairs.
Participants can then build on these skills through further training or by exploring apprenticeship and employment opportunities.
The Government provides $1 million to men’s sheds each year, and has provided 47 grants to men’s sheds across Victoria since November 2014.
An $879,000 grant round for the construction of new sheds and the refurbishment of existing sheds across the state recently closed, with funding recipients to be announced in September 2017.
There are more than 350 men’s sheds in Victoria, which offer spaces for local men to meet and work on common projects.
The Western Suburbs CALD Men’s Shed will support the area’s culturally diverse community. More than half of the residents in suburbs including Sunshine North and Braybrook were born overseas (2011 Census).
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“Men’s sheds are an integral part of any community, which is why we are opening more of them across Victoria.”
“The new men’s shed will help men in Melbourne’s west engage in their local community, make new connections and improve their health and wellbeing.”
Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Marsha Thomson
“This is about giving men in one of the most multicultural communities in Melbourne a place to meet and get involved in the community.”
“I commend everyone involved for making this shed a reality – it will make a real difference for our community.”
Quotes attributable to Australia Light Foundation General Coordinator Faith Yargi
“Western Melbourne’s culturally rich and inclusive community is part of what makes it so special, and we want to encourage more people to participate in community life.”
“The shed will work to reduce isolation for residents of culturally diverse backgrounds and help them to develop new interests and share their skills with younger generations.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020