Men’s Health Week, held from 9–16 June 2025, is a chance to talk openly about men’s physical, mental and emotional health, and encourage men and boys to take a more proactive approach to their wellbeing.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, this conversation is more important than ever.
Statistics show that First Nations men continue to have higher rates of chronic illness, mental health challenges, and a shorter life expectancy than non-Indigenous men.
Men’s Health Week 2025 is a timely reminder that looking after your health is not a weakness – it’s a strength. It’s about encouraging men of all ages to book regular check-ups with their GP, talk more openly about their mental health, stay active and connected to community and seek support before problems become harder to manage.
These steps can make a huge difference, especially in communities where men may be less likely to speak up or seek help.
The health gap facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men
The reasons for poorer health outcomes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men are complex. As highlighted by the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men may experience:
- A higher burden of disease from chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes
- Mental health challenges, often made worse by racism, discrimination and disconnection from culture
- Barriers to accessing healthcare, including shame, stigma and a lack of culturally safe services
Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men also carry the impacts of intergenerational trauma, yet don’t always feel comfortable seeking help – especially in mainstream health settings.
Improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men
At Joint Colleges Training Services (JCTS), we deliver culturally responsive education, training and workshops to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals, GPs and GP registrars across Australia.
Our work helps build the capability and confidence of GPs and GP registrars who are already making a difference in their communities, and gives them the tools to better support the men in their care.
We’re committed to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men’s health by building local capacity and ensuring culturally safe care. We support Aboriginal men’s health by:
- Delivering training in rural, regional and remote areas that reflects local context and community needs
- Facilitating workshops that cover chronic disease, social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and more
- Creating safe, inclusive learning environments where GP registrars learn about the important connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and their families have with Country.
When Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men are supported to lead, learn and heal on their own terms, everyone benefits.
Image source: Tourism Australia