NT Men’s Places Grants Application Opens
Applications for the Northern Territory Government's new grants - designed to strengthen the health, wellbeing and social connection of men across the Territory - are now open.
The Men’s Places Grants Program will provide financial support for individuals and organisations running programs that help men build community ties, seek support, and access resources that improve their physical and emotional wellbeing.
The initiative forms part of the Northern Territory Gender Equality Action Plan 2022–2025, a wide-ranging blueprint aimed at reducing gender-based disadvantage and improving opportunities for all Territorians. While the plan takes a whole-of-community approach, several priorities specifically address the needs of NT men and boys, acknowledging the unique barriers they face around mental health, social isolation and help-seeking.
Among the commitments outlined in the action plan are:
• Supporting events that foster social connection and positive mental health for people of all genders.
• Partnering with community groups to develop gender-aware health information and encourage more men to seek help early.
• Promoting positive male role models and celebrating fathering and grandfathering as strengths that benefit families and communities.
The idea for dedicated “men’s places” has been gathering momentum for several years. In July 2021, the government committed to developing a Men’s Places Policy, recognising the important role these spaces play in community life. Modelled on the success of initiatives like Men’s Sheds, men’s healing programs and other grassroots efforts, these places offer safe, informal environments where men can talk openly, learn skills, and build networks of support.
Following extensive consultations with existing men’s programs, the government has now established a funding stream to help such initiatives grow. The Territory will provide $200,000 annually, offering grants of up to $20,000 for activities ranging from skills development and health programs to peer support sessions, parenting workshops and equipment purchases.
Officials say the grants are intended to strengthen community-led approaches rather than duplicate existing services. The focus is on practical, accessible programs that help men stay connected — particularly in remote regions where isolation can compound health and mental health challenges.
The grants are open to both individuals and organisations, provided they meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must demonstrate that their proposed activity does not duplicate existing NT Government funding, and must have a history of meeting acquittal and accountability requirements for previous grants. Individuals must reside in the NT for the duration of the funded activity, while organisations must be physically located and actively operating in the Territory, or partner with an NT-based group.
Applications for the Men’s Places Grants Program close 1 March 2026.