Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan and Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry have hosted a Men and Boys’ forum in Rockhampton with the Shadow Special Envoy for Men and Boys, Llew O’Brien, to highlight the issues that young men in Central Queensland face.
Being a police officer before entering parliament, Mr O’Brien said he has seen the results of what happens when men aren’t provided the support that they need.
“In Australia male suicide rates are three times higher than female suicide rates, highlighting the need for more support for men,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Holding these forums is important to highlight the problems that men face, and give them a voice in helping to develop the opportunities that we have to improve the health, wellbeing, and educational outcomes, as well as helping our young men achieve their potential.
“We know people around the country are doing it tough, and that’s why it’s more important to help develop support to ensure we don’t see more men being left behind.”
Leader of The Nationals Senator Matt Canavan said having a Shadow Special Envoy for Men and Boys shows that The Nationals are committed to improving outcomes for young men.
“We’ve got a generation of men who feel like they’ve been shut out of the conversation, and that their issues don’t matter,” Senator Canavan said.
“Australia has done a great job with advocacy for women’s issues, but we can walk and chew gum at the same time.
“We can’t accept a business as usual approach to male disadvantage in life expectancy, chronic disease, suicide, and education.”
Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the forum was an opportunity for men to speak up and be heard.
“Men quite often suffer in silence, with people not realising something is wrong until it’s too late,” Ms Landry said.
“With cost-of-living pressures, and a Labor Government that is making it harder for young people to get ahead, we need to be listening and growing opportunities for our men and boys instead of just ignoring them.”
The forum in Rockhampton is part of a series that Mr O’Brien plans on holding around the country as Shadow Special Envoy for Men and Boys.
[Ends]
Media contact –
Senator Canavan: Kerrod Gream | 0411 260 463
Michelle Landry: Kirsten Markey | 0418 908 159
Llew O’Brien: Simon Kelly | 0418 824 779
