1. MENSLINE AUSTRALIA Terry Melvin Manager Fathers Direct, London 2005

2. Crisis Support Services  An independent not for profit, operates three, 24*7 telephone counselling referral services.  Care Ring: oldest service in Australia Generalist-volunteer, Victoria wide  Suicide Helpline - Victoria Experienced professional staff  Mensline Australia: National, professional & volunteer staff  Child Support Agency pilot project - Direct Telephone Support Service (DTSS) and Being Connected

3. Mensline Australia is ….  Commonwealth Government initiative  A confidential and anonymous telephone counselling providing support for men dealing with family and relationship concerns  Staffed by paid & volunteer counsellors - expert in men’s issues  Available 24 x 7 from anywhere in the country for the cost of a local call

4. Mensline Australia – reason for being….  Enhance community service’s response to men’s emotional needs  Encourage more help seeking by men  Strengthen men’s role in the family and relationships  Support and enhance men’s crisis management capacities

5. Mensline Australia – profile of callers ….  87% of callers are male  85% of callers are aged between 30-49 years  60% of callers are living apart from family – either alone, or in shared / supported accom. Approximately 1% is homeless.  Nearly 70% are in full or part time work. 26% are unemployed  48% are separated or divorced; 32% are in a relationship; 18% are single.  73% are fathers (either their own or step children), however, 37% live apart from their children and 7% are sole parenting.

6. Mensline Australia – presenting issues …  Relationship difficulties Existing relationship, separation, parenting, access to children,  Coping issues Depression / anxiety, anger, grief and loss  Safety concerns Suicide/threats of self harm, family violence, child protection

7. Mensline Australia – activities…  Men at Work A dedicated line for Australia Post men  Workplace Training Training workplaces to be more receptive and responsive to men (CSA / FCA)  Telstra Fathers Project Fathers of young children in rural and remote areas who may be at risk to themselves or others. Extended call-back service providing support and skill enhancement.