Zurich Financial Services and its OnePath Life business have renewed their 12-month partnership with Mr Perfect, a grassroots men’s mental wellbeing support network that encourages conversations and connections through informal BBQs.

The partnership is now in its fourth year, with more than 40 locations in most states and territories.

Australia Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Affairs Linda Griffin says the business is committed to improving accessibility of mental wellbeing programs in the community.

“It’s our hope and strong belief that through participation in community programs like Mr

Perfect, fewer Australians will reach a point of crisis in their mental health,” she said.

“We’ve seen firsthand through the various mental wellbeing programs we support that community-based programs serve a tremendous role.”

Mr Perfect founder Terry Cornick says awareness of mental health and wellbeing have improved

among men in the five years since he started the program.

Average attendance at BBQs has gone from five to more than 20, and more are willing to open up.

“What we’re offering is a soft entry point into mental health awareness and support,” Mr Cornick said.

“It’s our hope that men come to our BBQs, have a meaningful conversation with someone they can relate to, and later reflect on whether they need to consider taking the next step in addressing their own mental health concerns.”