New dads would receive free mental health checks under a pilot to be funded under a NSW Nationals Government to address the number of men not getting the support they need during a critical period for families.
The pilot program, which is estimated to cost $2.5 million, would run for four years across multiple Local Health Districts, delivering important mental health support for dads at key perinatal and postnatal milestones. The pilot would help determine how these mental health checks could most effectively be delivered statewide.
Leader of the Opposition Kellie Sloane said becoming a new dad was a life changing experience for men, but many fathers report they are not getting the healthcare they need.
"Recent research from Movember found that three in five dads were never asked by a health professional about their mental health in the lead up to, or in the 12 months following the birth of their child. I want to change that," Ms Sloane said.
"Happy and healthy parents set up our kids for success, but right now too many new dads are not getting the healthcare they need. Looking after mum, bub and dad means the whole family gets the best possible start."
Shadow Minister for Health Sarah Mitchell said this pilot would help identify new dads who need help early and would align with the touchpoints already embedded in NSW maternal health pathways.
"Mums are checked on regularly throughout pregnancy and after birth, and there is an
opportunity for us to align those checks with health interventions for new dads as well," Mrs Mitchell said.
"The pilot will be delivered in both metropolitan and regional health settings and ensure where a dad might be struggling with his mental health, we can support him earlier, reducing the risk of something more serious developing."
Ms Sloane acknowledged the vital advocacy and research work of Dr Zac Seidler and Movember, which had shone a light on the health of new dads in their More than a Provider report, which called for routine mental health screening of new dads.
This announcement builds on the NSW Nationals plans to deliver a dedicated 10-year Men and Boys' Health Strategy by the end of 2027 and host a two-day Men's Health
summit next year.
