The Inaugural Men's Mental Health Forum begins today as the Minns Labor Government tries to destigmatise conversations about mental health, particularly for men.

The landmark Forum, hosted at New South Wales Parliament, will bring together mental health advocates, experts and those with a lived experience of mental illness, with the aim of raising awareness of men’s mental health, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, and working towards lowering men’s suicide rates.

New South Wales accounts for the most male deaths by suicide in Australia. In 2023 alone, there were 934 suspected deaths by suicide in New South Wales, with men accounting for 78 per cent of these tragedies.

Led by Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson and in partnership with with the Movember Institute of Men’s Health, the event will include high-profile advocates for men’s mental health, Rugby League legend Greg Inglis and former Australian cricketer and MAFS star, Cam Merchant.

The event will be facilitated by Dr Zac Seidler, Movember Men's Health Research.

The Forum will:

• facilitate constructive discussions on men’s mental health and suicide prevention,
• enable the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and strategies to address men’s suicide and mental health,
• help guide the direction of future suicide prevention initiatives targeting men, and
• encourage networking and collaboration between men’s mental health and suicide prevention stakeholders.

This event follows the announcement that the NSW Government is working to deliver landmark whole of government suicide prevention legislation within this term of Parliament, with the process of consultation with people with lived and living experiences of suicidal distress beginning in July.

If you, or someone you know, is in a life-threatening situation please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000). For those contemplating suicide or experiencing severe distress, the following helplines are available 24/7:

• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• 13 YARN: 13 92 76
• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

Additionally, the NSW Mental Health Line (1800 011 511) offers round-the-clock advice on accessing local specialist mental health services. The NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 is a 24/7 service that can advise you on appropriate local specialist mental health services for you or a loved one.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said, “Ensuring people who are experiencing mental health distress have access to services when they need them most is a priority for the NSW Government. Despite high levels of need for men, we know it can be especially difficult for them to ask for help when they need it.

“Today, we are taking an important step along the journey to addressing male suicide and mental ill health and this groundbreaking event will help guide our work.

“It is vital that we continue to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure that every man in NSW knows that help is available, and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and save lives.”

Professor Simon Rice, Global Director of the Movember Men’s Health Institute said, “Addressing men’s health is critically important because suicide remains the leading cause of death among Australian men aged 15-44 years, and the third leading cause of premature death among Australian men of any age.

“The Movember Institute of Men’s Health is dedicated to bridging the gap between the health sector and government, advocating for tailored support for men and ensuring that their needs are met. Contrary to the misconception that men are reluctant to seek help, our latest Real Face of Men’s Health Report reveals that many do seek care but often fall through the cracks.

“Over 50 per cent of Australian men who die by suicide each year had prior contact with a mental health provider, highlighting a significant gap in targeted support.

“Programs like Men in Mind are crucial—they offer a world-first approach to training therapists, equipping them with the skills to engage and respond to men’s unique needs effectively. By advancing these initiatives, we are working to ensure that men receive the comprehensive support they need, when they need it.”

Greg Inglis said, "As someone who has faced my own battles with mental health, I know firsthand the importance of having open, honest conversations about our struggles.

“This Forum is a crucial step in breaking down the barriers that prevent men from seeking the help they need.

“I hope from today we can change the narrative around men’s mental health and ensure that no one has to suffer in silence.”