Shadow Assistant Minister for Health, Stephen Jones, has welcomed the Governments decision to continue funding Labors Mens Sheds.

However, like so many other delayed commitments it is disappointing that Tony Abbott has only just decided to extend this funding for another few years.

Labor initiated, launched and funded the nations first National Male Policy which included the introduction of Mens Sheds.

They are a place for men to congregate, find social support and fight social isolation. They are especially valuable for older men and men living in remote, rural and regional Australia - and they must be funded in the long term.

People who are socially and economically disadvantaged have poorer health outcomes and increased health risk factors.

Mens Sheds is an outstanding initiative, we must do all we can to ensure that it can reach marginalised and isolated men effectively.

SUNDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER 2015