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Gen Z Leads New Wave of Men’s Mental Health Support

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A silhouette of a male high school student to illustrate stress and mental health issues

Australia is currently grappling with a severe mental health crisis among young men, with suicide remaining the leading cause of death for males aged 15 to 24.

Addressing this challenge requires moving beyond traditional methods that often fail to reach those most in need. Leading this shift is Headstart, a Melbourne-based, Gen Z-led organization that is transforming how young men connect with mental health support.

A New Approach: “By Boys, For Boys”

Founded in 2024 by Nick Irving, Headstart was born out of the gaps in the existing mental health system. Irving observed that traditional care often relies on a “blanket approach” that doesn’t always account for the specific factors affecting an individual.

Instead, Headstart utilizes a lived-experience model, hiring workers who have personally navigated mental health challenges, disability, or the juvenile justice system. This peer-to-peer connection is designed to break down the barriers of formal clinical settings.

“A lot of the existing mental health systems are quite one dimensional and set within their ways, but for us it comes down to showing up to what suits the individual best,” Mr. Irving said. “When young men are guided by mentors who genuinely get them, the connection is instant and that’s where growth starts.”

Breaking the Barriers of Traditional Care

For many families, the struggle isn’t just finding care, but finding care that is accessible. Julia, a mother of four, found that traditional supports were ineffective for her son, Thomas, who struggled to even leave his bedroom after the COVID-19 lockdowns.

The “relaxed way of communicating” used by Headstart proved to be the turning point for Thomas. By meeting young men where they are, rather than requiring them to visit an office, the organization fosters a level of trust that clinical environments often lack.

The impact of this relatable approach is clear:

  • 9 in 10 families report improvements in their son’s routine, independence, and wellbeing.
  • Partnerships are already established with Monash Children’s Hospital and the Victorian justice department.
  • Expansion plans are underway to move beyond Melbourne into Sydney and regional areas.

Moving Beyond the “Band-Aid”

The organization’s mission is to move away from temporary fixes toward sustainable growth. As Nick Irving explains, the current system often relies on a “Band-Aid approach” where medication is the primary response. Headstart instead focuses on relatability as the catalyst for change.

“We know that being relatable to these boys and leading with the approach that we do is critical for changing outcomes,” Irving said.

Through this Gen Z-led initiative, Australia is seeing a shift toward mental health care that prioritizes empathy, shared experience, and individual needs over rigid institutional structures.

Support Resources:

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14
  • Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (for ages 5 to 25)
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Source: Australian Associated Press

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ADB Appoints Takafumi Kadono to Lead PNG Operations

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Portrait of an Asian man with dark her wearing a black suit and tie

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently appointed Takafumi Kadono as its new Country Director for the Papua New Guinea Resident Mission. Based in Port Moresby, Mr. Kadono will lead the development and execution of the ADB’s upcoming country partnership strategy, steering the bank’s multifaceted engagement across the nation.

The appointment comes at a pivotal time as the ADB continues its role as one of PNG’s primary financing partners, particularly in large-scale infrastructure and social services.

“We will work with the Government of PNG to further boost economic growth and social development by supporting improvements to the country’s transport and energy sectors, increasing access to health and education services, and bolstering the competitiveness of the private sector,” said Mr. Kadono.

“ADB will continue to work closely with key partners to enhance the inclusivity and resilience of PNG’s financial and health systems to future shocks.”

Mr. Kadono, a Japanese national, brings more than 26 years of international development expertise to the role. His career spans tenures at both the World Bank Group and the ADB, most recently serving as the ADB’s Country Director for Sri Lanka.

His leadership will oversee a broad portfolio that extends beyond traditional infrastructure. The ADB’s current footprint in PNG includes:

  • Education: Partnering with the Government of Australia to fund technical and vocational training designed to align student skills with industry demands.
  • Health: Implementing policy reforms and direct investments to improve public financial management and system-wide resilience.
  • Infrastructure: Providing critical financing for the nation’s transport and energy networks.
    About the ADB.

Established in 1966 and owned by 69 members, the Asian Development Bank is a major multilateral lender focused on sustainable and inclusive growth in Asia and the Pacific. The organization utilizes innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to address complex regional challenges, ranging from infrastructure development to climate change.

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PM Marape Demands National Rededication as PNG Enters 51st Year of Independence

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Prime Minister, James Marape has issued a stern directive to Papua New Guinea’s public sector, calling for a total “reset” of the government machinery as the nation transitions from its Golden Jubilee celebrations into its 51st year of independence.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Public Service Opening and Dedication Service, the Prime Minister emphasized that the event is a mandatory call to action for all Ministers, departmental heads, and public servants, rather than a mere ceremonial tradition.

A Shift from Celebration to Delivery

Following the conclusion of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, Marape signaled that the period of national festivities has ended, and a period of aggressive implementation must begin.

“We have celebrated our past. Now we must build our future,” the Prime Minister stated.

“Our people have given us a mandate. Our development framework is clear. Our priorities are set in MTDP IV. There is no excuse for delay, confusion or complacency.”

The Prime Minister’s remarks highlight a sense of urgency, noting that the country’s success depends on the efficiency of its workforce. He warned against the loss of productive time to “unnecessary delays” and “inefficiencies,” stressing that the responsibility of nation-building extends beyond the executive level.

“When it is work time, it must be work time,” he said.

“This country cannot be built by just the Prime Minister, Ministers or department heads. It must be built by every officer, from the highest executive to the front-line public servant.”

The “Critical” 20-Year Window

The Prime Minister framed the current era as a pivotal 20-year phase that will ultimately define the country’s trajectory for future generations. He identified this period as the window in which PNG must maximize economic growth, bolster infrastructure, and eradicate systemic corruption.

“The next 20 years will decide everything; how big our economy becomes, how strong our infrastructure is, how safe our communities are, and how clean and efficient our public service will be,” Marape said.

“This is when we must grow our economy the fastest, build our infrastructure the greatest, strengthen our law-and-order system, protect our sovereignty, and eliminate corruption.”

Accountability and Action

Central to this vision is the performance of the public service. Marape noted that while policies are firmly in place through the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV, the burden of proof now lies in the execution of those plans.

“Every ministry, every department, every agency already knows what it must do,” he said.

“Our national priorities are clearly set out in MTDP IV. We do not need more talk. We need action.”

Tomorrow’s dedication service in Port Moresby is expected to see full attendance from government leadership and board members of State-Owned Enterprises, serving as the formal launch of what the Prime Minister described as the “next leg” of the national journey.

“This is our reset moment,” Marape concluded.

“The work starts now. The expectations are high. And every public servant has a role to play.”

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Unitech Forestry Students Receive Professional Work Experience Certificates

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PNG Forest Authority Acting Managing Director, John Mosoro presented Professional Work Experience Certificates yesterday (January 7) to 15 students from the University of Technology  studying the Bachelor of Science in Forestry Degree program.

Eight young men and seven women took part in a 24 -day training program under various directors at the Forest Authority Headquarters in late November and December last year (2025).

Mr Mosoro congratulated and encouraged the students to utilize what they have learnt.

PNG Forestry Executives and Unitech Forestry Students
PNGFA Acting MD, John Mosoro (Centre).

He explained to the students before presenting the certificates that forestry plays a key role in PNG’s development and must not be isolated from other sustainable resource sectors.

” I want you to have a different mind-set towards the forestry sector, forestry is not just about timber and log exports, it is about our people and welfare and how they can benefit from their resources.

Forestry must not be isolated in PNGs development, it is integrated into the Medium Term Development Strategy Plan and Vision 2050.

” Forestry and PNGFA play a key role in the development of PNG. We assist and give licenses to landowners to develop their resources and gain economic and other benefits as well as open up road links to rural parts of PNG under the Connect PNG programme, ” Mr Mosoro said.

He assured the students that PNGFA will recruit the best by merit. They will be sent out to the field under different directors initially to gain hands on experience and build up their careers in forestry and other sectors.

“I want to groom up and coming young minds. I want the best in forestry and will employ by merits, ” Mr Mosoro said.

One of the student trainees Miss Mona Lisa Ten said it was a privilege and wonderful to gain professional work experience at PNGFA.

” At Unitech we learn out of text books. We do not get hands on experience. This 24-days with the PNGFA directors was an insightful and eye opening experience. It was a wonderful experience, I would be happy to be employed by PNGFA and start out on the field, ” Miss Ten said.

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Ok Tedi Outlines Five-Year Plan to Reopen Misima Gold Project

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Misima Aerial Shot

A new era of economic opportunity is on the horizon for the people of Misima. Following its acquisition of the Misima Gold Project last May, Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has officially launched a five-year roadmap that promises to bring more than just mining to the region; it aims to rebuild the island’s core infrastructure.

The ambitious plan, detailed during a series of community engagements in early December, outlines a path to full-scale production by 2030. However, for the local residents, the most immediate impact will be felt long before the first ounce of gold is poured.

In a departure from traditional mining timelines, OTML has committed to upgrading community essentials during the initial feasibility stage. This means that while engineers are studying the pits, work crews will be focusing on the island’s everyday needs.

“We’re not waiting until production to make a difference,” said Jesse Pile, Ok Tedi’s General Manager for Social Performance and Sustainability.

“Roads, power, water, and support for schools and the hospital will start early. These improvements will benefit communities long before the mine is operational.”

These early investments are designed to serve a dual purpose, providing a “goodwill” foundation for the islanders while creating the necessary logistics network to support the mine’s development.

The project is structured into three distinct phases, each bringing different levels of activity and opportunity to the island:

PhaseTimelineKey Activities
1. Feasibility & Permitting2026-2027Exploration at Umuna, Ewatinona and Kulumalia; environmental studies; infrastructure upgrades.
2. Construction2028-2029A massive surge in local activity as the processing plant and site facilities are built.
3. Production2030Full-scale commercial operations and long-term economic returns.

“Once permits are secured, construction will transform Misima into a hub of activity,” Mr. Pile noted.

“This phase is about building the capacity to operate safely and efficiently.”

Leveraging 40 years of experience from its operations in the Star Mountains, Ok Tedi is positioning the Misima project as a model of responsible development. The company is focusing heavily on doing things right from the start, particularly regarding environmental and social safeguards.

The ultimate goal is to restore the economic engine of the island, which has been quiet since previous operations ceased years ago.

General Manager Social Performance & Sustainability, Jesse Pile, with Misima Islanders at Narian Village
General Manager Social Performance & Sustainability, Jesse Pile, with Misima Islanders at Gulewa Village

“Before the end of 2030, we aim to see Misima in full production again,” Mr. Pile said.

“This will bring real opportunities for jobs, spin-off business, and long-term benefits for the island.”

The success of the project hinges on the relationship between the miner and the landholders. Early reports from the December meetings suggest a warm reception from the local population, who have been eager for a sustainable path toward modernization.

“Community support is the foundation of this project,” Pile emphasized.

“We’ve seen incredible positivity from Misima people, and we will continue to engage openly, transparently, and honestly.”

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PM Marape Issues Stern Warning to Those Shielding Gunmen

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James Marape

Prime Minister, James Marape has issued a blunt ultimatum to communities across the country to stop protecting criminals or face the full weight of the law.

As police intensify “Operation Kumul 23” to scrub illegal firearms from the country’s most volatile regions, the Prime Minister made it clear that the era of hiding hired gunmen behind village walls must end. The government’s stance, he says, is now one of absolute zero tolerance.

The recent surge in police activity, specifically in the Tsak Valley of Wapenamenda in Enga Province, isn’t a random sweep.

According to Marape, it is a surgical strike based on deep intelligence that follows not just the gunmen, but the money.

“The operation at Tsak Valley, Wapenamenda, was a targeted operation,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“Police were acting on intelligence relating to known hired gunmen operating within the province.”

The Prime Minister revealed that authorities have successfully mapped out the networks fueling tribal warfare, including those who bankroll the violence from the shadows.

“I want to inform Enga Province, Southern Highlands, Hela and communities right across the country that police have assembled sufficient intelligence, including financial trails, on gunmen and those sponsoring these fights,” he warned.

“Police will not be recalled. Police will remain at work.”

A central theme of the Prime Minister’s address was the protection of the innocent. He expressed frustration with criminals who use their own families and neighbours as “human shields” to evade capture, often leading to tragic outcomes during confrontations.

“If you are a criminal and police come for you, surrender,” Marape urged.

“Do not fight back. Do not use innocent people as shields, because when that happens, innocent lives are put at risk.”

To the law-abiding citizens in these “hotspot” areas, the Prime Minister’s message was one of both reassurance and a plea for calm:

“If police come to your community, do not be hostile. Do not fight back. Cooperate. If you are innocent, show that you are unarmed and pose no threat. Police are not there to target innocent people.”

For those who continue to harbor fugitives or maintain illegal arsenals, the consequences are now permanent. Under current laws, the illegal possession of a firearm carries a sentence of life imprisonment.

Marape emphasized that the burden of safety rests on the community’s willingness to reject the culture of violence. He pledged that while the State would take responsibility if innocent people were harmed during operations, the “firm, relentless enforcement” would not waver.

“Our country is tired of criminals hiding behind communities and emerging to cause violence,” the Prime Minister concluded.

“Supporting the police means safer families, safer communities, safer districts and safer provinces.”

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Central, Western and Morobe Province yet to Submit Annual Reports

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A display of the three flags of Morobe, Western and Central

The deadline for submitting the 2024 Annual Provincial Performance Report or APPR has lapsed since the 30th of June and only three Provinces are yet to submit theirs.

The Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Soroi Marepo Eoe, commended the majority of provincial governments for adhering to reporting requirements and submitting their 2024 Annual Provincial Performance Reports (APPR) to the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA).

Under Section 119 of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments (OLPLLG), all provincial governments—excluding the National Capital District and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville—are required to submit their APPRs for the preceding year by 30 June.

Minister Eoe explained that each year, the National Government allocates funding to provincial governments to support service delivery across six Minimum Priority Areas (MPAs): Governance, Education, Health, Works and Transport, Law and Justice, and Primary Production.

“Compliance reporting on the MPAs strengthens, accountability and builds trust between provincial governments and the people. It enhances relationships and instils confidence in service delivery,” the Minister said.

Secretary Philip Leo confirmed that 17 provinces have submitted their reports, with only Central, Western and Morobe provinces yet to submit.

“Once these remaining reports are received, the Minister will table the consolidated outcomes in Parliament next year,” Secretary Leo stated.

On 27 May 2025, Minister Eoe presented the Annual Provincial Performance Reports for the years 2018–2022 in Parliament. This was the third presentation of its kind since the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments was enacted in 1995.

“Over the past decade (2014–2023), only 10 provinces have consistently submitted their APPRs,” the Minister noted.

In the last five years, only seven provinces met the 30 June deadline, while 13 submitted late or failed to submit altogether.

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Santos CEO to Headline Flagship PNG Investment Summit in Sydney

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Silver haired caucasian man earing a navy blue suit and tie

Kevin Gallagher, Managing Director and CEO of Santos, is set to lead a global lineup of business executives as the headline speaker at the PNG Investment Leaders’ Summit, a central event of the Papua New Guinea Investment Week 2025.

The summit is scheduled to take place from December 8–11 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney, operating under the theme “Stronger Together – Investing for the Future.”

Gallagher helms one of the world’s leading energy companies, which serves as a cornerstone investor in Papua New Guinea. Santos has a more than 100-year association with PNG and has invested billions of dollars into the nation’s oil and gas sector.

These investments include transformative projects such as the established PNG LNG venture and the upcoming P’nyang Gas Project. These projects are described as being “critical to the nation’s economic growth and energy security.” The company continues to drive sustainable development, create jobs, and generate significant revenue for the country.

Gallagher’s keynote address is expected to offer unparalleled insights into global energy trends, LNG expansion, and investment strategies shaping the Asia-Pacific region. His participation highlights the summit’s role as the premier platform for strategic dialogue between PNG and Australia’s top decision-makers.

The four-day Investment Week aims to unite global investors, industry leaders, and policymakers for high-level discussions focused on unlocking investment opportunities and forging partnerships in PNG.

Current registration figures show strong interest, with over 800 delegates confirmed. Sponsorships have reached 58% capacity, and exhibition booths are 83% booked.

The program includes several dedicated forums and networking events:

  • December 8: International Suppliers Forum, PNG Regulators Forum, and PNG Climate Investment Summit.
  • December 9: PNG Investment Leaders’ Summit (featuring Kevin Gallagher).
  • December 10: PNG Resources & Energy Investment Summit.
  • December 11: PNG Infrastructure Investment Summit and PNG Resources Exploration Forum.

Networking opportunities include the Investment Week Golf Challenge, which also supports charitable initiatives, and the PNGIW25 Gala Dinner for informal engagement.

These sessions are set to showcase investment-ready projects across a wide range of sectors, including mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, infrastructure, and climate solutions.

Organizers are strongly recommending early confirmation to secure participation and maximize visibility, as spaces for delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors remain available but are filling fast.

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Tongan Star Isaiya Katoa Breaks Scoring Record

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Isaiya Katoa in action during the Tonga national team rugby league training session at Nudgee College in Brisbane.

Tonga’s 21-year-old halfback, Isaiya Katoa, has already broken the national all-time point-scoring record, with potentially a decade or more left in his career.

​The young playmaker, widely regarded as a top talent, heads into Tonga’s Pacific Cup match against Samoa at Suncorp Stadium with an impressive record. According to NRL statistician David Middleton, whose records date back to 1995, Katoa leads the way with 67 points across nine Test matches (two tries, 29 goals, and one field goal).

​”I have Isaiya out in front of Siosiua Taukeiaho on 60 points, from two tries and 26 goals.”

Middleton also noted Katoa’s longevity.

​”He will be around for a while too. He is coming up to 10 Tests and he is only 21.”

Tonga co-captain Jason Taumalolo praised Katoa’s maturity, recalling his performance during the 2022 World Cup.

​”We knew how mature he was when he was doing school exams at the 2022 World Cup.”

“To go from that to where he is now speaks volumes for what kind of player Izzy is.”

​Taumalolo expressed confidence in Katoa’s dominant playing style and leadership for such a young player.

​”The feature of Izzy this year, and looking ahead, is for a young half to be so dominant. You don’t see many halves come through and play the way he does.”

“I am sure the boys are confident going into this game having Izzy alongside them steering the ship. Whatever Izzy says, goes.”

​Coach Kristian Woolf believes Katoa will be even better in this year’s Pacific Cup after his best NRL season with the Dolphins. Woolf was impressed with Katoa’s dedication and preparation for the Tests.

​”I know he’s really hungry to get into this camp.”

“We watched a little bit of video and had a bit of a chat about how we want to play.”

“You could just tell in the way he spoke and how engaged he was that he’d been thinking about it well before I had, so he’s ready to go.”

​Woolf credits last season’s high-level experience for his expected improvement.

​”I think last year’s (Pacific Cup) series gave him a lot of confidence in what he can do at such a high level against Australia in two games and against the Kiwis as well.”

“I just know that he’s coming in so much more confident, so better prepared.”

“He’s going to be a better player again, and I’m sure he’ll get more confidence out of this series as well.”

Source: Australian Associated Press

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