Thursday, 30 October 2025

 Nina TAYLOR (Albert Park) (17:26): (1384) My adjournment is for the Minister for Carers and Volunteers, Minister Ros Spence, and the ask is for the minister to visit my electorate to see Port Phillip Men’s Shed. The Port Phillip Men’s Shed has become a vital hub for social inclusion, providing a space where men of all ages and backgrounds can come together, share their skills and support one another. The men’s shed plays an important role in reducing social isolation and improving men’s mental health within our community. A visit from the minister would be a good opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of the volunteers who keep the shed running and to acknowledge the good that the shed brings to the community. The men’s shed welcomes members of all genders and skill levels, offering three main spaces for creativity and mateship to flourish. These spaces include a woodworking shed as well as a metal shed and a garden that incorporates local bush tucker plants with an accompanying kitchen. This not-for-profit organisation allows members to build connections and give back to the community, like building toys for a toy library, creating items for Parks Victoria and crafting furniture for local housing groups. The men’s shed is a crucial space for fostering connection, purpose and wellbeing within the Port Phillip community, making it a shining example of how local initiatives can strengthen social ties and improve lives.

I do want to thank Aliina from Albert Park College and Daisy from Port Melbourne Secondary College, work experience students who have assisted with this adjournment today.