When you hear the name Dan Repacholi, you might first think of his accolades as a five-time Olympic shooter and Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist. But now, the community champion and Federal MP is setting his sights on something just as critical: men’s health.
Fresh off his re-election as the Federal Member for Hunter, Dan has taken on a new role as Special Envoy for Men’s Health under the Albanese Government, a first for any Australian administration.
“Whether it was me or someone else, I think it’s fantastic that we’ve finally got someone focused on the unique health issues men face,” Dan says.
And unique they are. From reluctance to see doctors, to a culture of silence around physical and mental health, Dan says men are still lagging behind where they need to be.
“We’re not good at talking about our feelings. We’re not good at going to the doctor. But we need to be.”
Shoulder to Shoulder
One of the first places Dan turned to in his new role was Men’s Sheds.
In his first term as Member for Hunter Dan was quick to see the community and health benefits of Men’s Sheds, with 13 spanning his electorate.
Dan says that whether it’s a cracking BBQ, fixing things, mentoring or just keeping each other company, it’s the kind of grassroots support that members find at their local Men’s Shed is what is great for men’s health.
He emphasises that good health includes productivity, community contribution, friendship, and mental and physical activity, all things fostered through Men’s Sheds.
Dan also sees an opportunity to help spread a proactive message through the Men’s Shed movement.
“Men’s Sheds are a fantastic platform. I can speak directly to large groups of blokes around a similar age – guys heading into or already in retirement,” he says. “They might be talking about health, but not always with the right info. I want to help change that.”
And change, for Dan, begins with a conversation.
“If I go to a shed and 100 people hear me speak, and just two of them make a doctor’s appointment they wouldn’t have otherwise made… then that’s a win.”
From the Shed to Federal Parliament
Dan’s own journey started in the shed. A self-described “not-great student,” he left school early to begin an apprenticeship as a fitter at age 15.
“I was good with my hands. I wasn’t into English or history, but I loved PE, woodwork, and metalwork. I knew early on I wanted to be a tradesman.”
He credits that clear direction with setting him on the right path, one that he believes schools could help more kids discover earlier through hands-on trade engagement from Year 7 onwards.
Dan’s shift into politics was inspired by his own life experiences and a desire to bring the voice of the average Aussie to the table in Canberra.
Combining a successful sporting career with work in mining, engineering and business, Dan entered federal politics in 2022 after having considered local council for a long time.
More than just a check-up
Dan chats with shedders at the Toronto Men’s Shed
Dan’s personal health journey is also the basis for his mission to see better health outcomes for Australia’s men and boys. He has spoken openly about reaching 152kg, avoiding doctors, but eventually confronting his health head‑on. Now, he’s encouraging men to view health checks as maintenance, not weakness.
And he’s taking full advantage of his new role as Special Envoy for Men’s Health, a first for any federal administration, to elevate national attention and support for the men’s health sector
Dan’s health message is simple: go to the doctor, and tell them the real reason you’re there.
“Don’t just talk about the rash on your leg from yesterday. Be honest. If something’s been bugging you for weeks, speak up. The doctor can’t help if they don’t know.”
And while he’s not done growing his beard just yet (he jokes it may disappear for a charity fundraiser), his mission is crystal clear.
“We need to make health conversations normal. Like we service our cars, we should be servicing ourselves.”
Dan summed it up well on the eve of his appointment:
“This role is a chance to shine a national spotlight on the unique health challenges facing Australian men and boys… We need real conversations, real resources, and real results.”
Dan with John Paul Young and David Helmers (AMSA EO)
Shining a light on Men’s Health
Dan is laser-focused on tackling men’s reluctance to seek help, especially around mental health, suicide prevention, chronic illness, and healthcare access:
- He advocates for “bloke‑friendly” services, meeting men in locations they trust.
- He stresses tailoring services for rural communities with limited access.
- He underscores the importance of honesty at medical appointments and telling doctors what’s truly hurting.
- Dan believes Men’s Sheds play a huge role in helping men get, and stay, healthy.
You can catch John Paul Young’s interview with Dan on The Shed Wireless podcast. Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or visit www.mensshed.org/the-shed-wireless