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In an effort to foster healthier relationships and challenge harmful stereotypes, Australian officials are embarking on a national listening tour aimed at engaging men and boys across the country. Special Envoy for Men’s Health Dan Repacholi and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Ged Kearney are determined to promote a message of gender equality that benefits everyone, despite facing opposition from the rising influence of the manosphere and men’s rights activists.
A New Approach to Gender Equality
Kearney stresses that true gender equality is not a battle between the sexes but rather a collective effort that improves outcomes for all. “We must be clear that engaging with men and boys does not pit them against women,” she asserts. Yet, as they prepare to connect with communities nationwide, Repacholi and Kearney confront a well-entrenched narrative propagated by vocal extremist groups that often mischaracterise the dialogue surrounding men and women’s roles.
For years, certain activists have clamoured for a dedicated minister for men, claiming that existing systems favour women. Recently, the Victorian government appointed Paul Edbrooke to this position, while similar discussions have emerged in South Australia and among opposition parties in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. However, the focus of these activists diverges significantly from the vision of Repacholi and Kearney, who are committed to fostering understanding and support rather than perpetuating division.
Challenging Toxic Narratives
Simon Copland, an esteemed expert on misogyny and male violence, highlights the narrow focus of these groups, which often centre their arguments around family courts and alleged discrimination against men. He notes that such narratives can be harmful, as they frequently undermine the seriousness of domestic violence and sexual assault allegations, framing women as antagonists.
This culture of hostility was evident during a 2020 family law inquiry led by One Nation’s Pauline Hanson, where extreme views dominated the conversation. Graham Perrett, a veteran Labor politician who participated in the inquiry, recalls the atmosphere: “It was terrifying, with witnesses branded as ‘man haters’ and ‘dirty snakes’ in real-time comments.” Such hostility only serves to entrench existing divides, making it all the more essential for Repacholi and Kearney to present a balanced, respectful viewpoint.
A Focus on Wellbeing and Resilience
The government has launched the Healthy Men Community Conversations project, which aims to cultivate positive masculinities and encourage men and boys to seek help. This initiative comes in response to alarming statistics regarding men’s health in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 75% of suicide victims in 2024 were men, highlighting a critical need for targeted support and understanding.
“By promoting wellbeing and challenging harmful gender norms, everyone stands to gain,” Kearney emphasises. The initiative seeks to meet men where they are, facilitating open conversations about mental health and emotional resilience. Repacholi acknowledges that many men struggle to find the right resources when facing difficulties. “Too many lives are lost to preventable issues, including suicide,” he laments.
Experts from the Movember Institute of Men’s Health advocate for evidence-based policies to support men, underscoring the importance of resilience in navigating the pressures of modern life. Dr. Krista Fisher points out that the internet can lead young men towards harmful ideologies, making it crucial to identify those at risk of falling into extremist communities.
Addressing Misconceptions and Building Trust
The narrative pushed by some men’s rights groups—claiming that numerous fathers die by suicide due to interactions with family courts—has been widely discredited by experts. Michael Wilson, a research fellow, stresses that suicide is a multifaceted issue, influenced by mental health, relationship breakdowns, and acute life stressors, rather than simply a consequence of family court decisions.
Repacholi insists that it is vital to listen to all voices in this conversation but cautions against letting extreme narratives shape policy. “We must approach men and boys in a normal way, fostering dialogue that cuts through the noise created by more radical groups,” he explains. The objective is not just to address immediate issues but to effect generational change that will lead to healthier societies.
Why it Matters
The initiative led by Repacholi and Kearney is about more than just addressing men’s health; it’s a call for a cultural shift. By promoting positive masculinities and encouraging open dialogue, they aim to dismantle harmful stereotypes that have persisted for too long. As the nation grapples with rising mental health issues among men, this approach could pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive society, ultimately benefiting everyone, regardless of gender. The stakes are high, and with the right support and understanding, a brighter, more equitable future is within reach.
