The Queensland Men’s Shed Association (QMSA) is the state peak body supporting the Men’s Shed movement in Queensland. Funded through both Federal and State programs, QMSA promotes improved health and wellbeing outcomes for men, particularly through a settings-based approach. While each Men’s Shed operates autonomously, QMSA provides advisory support and facilitates capacity building across the network. Our approach to advancing men’s health aligns with contemporary health promotion frameworks and focuses on three key areas
1. Fostering Inclusive Shed Culture and Social Connectedness
A foundational determinant of men’s wellbeing is social connection. Men’s Sheds provide a unique environment where men—particularly those at risk of social isolation—can build relationships and experience a sense of belonging. However, healthy group culture doesn’t happen by accident. QMSA supports sheds to develop inclusive, strengths-based cultures through intentional leadership development, conflict resolution, and peer support. Retired leaders often need to shift from traditional hierarchical models to more collaborative, participatory styles of engagement—an essential transition for sustaining healthy communities.
2. Health Literacy and Behavioural Change through Informal Health Promotion
Sheds offer a culturally safe space for health education tailored to men. Informal sessions, often held during “smoko”, provide opportunities for peer-led learning, open dialogue, and the demystification of stigmatised topics. QMSA facilitates partnerships between sheds and a wide range of health professionals and health promotion agencies to deliver targeted, relevant content. Effective communicators use plain language, are responsive to the audience, and are willing to engage with spontaneous, sometimes challenging, questions in a relaxed setting
3. Embedding Preventive Health Programs in Everyday Shed Life
Increasingly, sheds are embedding structured health and wellbeing programs into their activities, including walking groups, personal trainers, nutrition workshops, and even in-house gym facilities. These initiatives support health behaviour change through routine, peer support, and community ownership. Success depends on local champions, sustainable resourcing, and responsive program design aligned with community needs and preferences.
QMSA continues to develop innovative partnerships and strategies that empower sheds to be effective enablers of men’s health—meeting men where they are and supporting them to live healthier, more connected lives.