Media Release: Clancy Back’s Landmark Men and Boy’s Health Strategy

CLANCY BACKS LANDMARK MEN AND BOYS’ HEALTH STRATEGY

Member for Albury Justin Clancy has welcomed the NSW Opposition’s commitment to deliver a dedicated 10-year Men and Boys’ Health Strategy, saying regional communities must be at the centre of efforts to improve outcomes for men and boys across the state.

Mr Clancy said too many men in regional NSW continue to face barriers accessing preventative healthcare, mental health support and specialist services.

“Men in regional communities are often less likely to seek help early and more likely to experience poorer health outcomes, particularly when it comes to mental health and preventable illness,” Mr Clancy said.

“This commitment is about making sure men and boys in communities like Albury, the Riverina and across regional NSW can access the support and healthcare services they need, when they need them.”

“We know men are less likely to visit a doctor, less likely to talk about mental health challenges and more likely to delay seeking treatment. That has to change.”

“A dedicated long-term strategy with a strong focus on prevention, early intervention and regional service delivery is an important step towards improving outcomes for men and boys right across NSW.”

NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane announced that a Liberals and Nationals Government would deliver the Strategy by the end of 2027, alongside a two-day Men’s Health Summit next year bringing together health professionals, researchers and advocates to help shape the plan.

The strategy will include clear targets for reducing male suicide, strengthening prevention and early intervention pathways and improving access to services in regional and outer metropolitan communities.

Shadow Health Minister Sarah Mitchell said regional communities often experience the greatest disparity in premature mortality and that the strategy would help ensure investment is directed where it is needed most.