Denman and Merriwa Mens Sheds will receive $2,000 and $3,000 respectively through the Australian Government Shed Development Program.

The Australian Government recognises the important work that local Sheds are doing to help men, including those who might be feeling disengaged or isolated from the community, Mr Fitzgibbon said.

For many local men, the Mens Shed is more than just a place to meet up to do some woodworking and have a cuppa. Its a welcoming environment where they can find support and mateship when they need it.

Denman Mens Shed will use the funding to purchase materials for fundraising and promotional activities and Merriwa Mens Shed will install a solar energy system.

Across Australia, 51 Mens Sheds will share in $125,000 worth of funding to assist with the cost of upgrading facilities, purchasing tools and work equipment and improving disability access.

Since 2010 the Australian Government has awarded grants to 211 Mens Sheds in recognition of the important work they do in the community, Mr Fitzgibbon said.

Funding priority is given to sheds that are committed to working with local councils, community health services, welfare organisations, mens health services and other services. Through these important community links, more socially disadvantaged or isolated men will benefit from their local shed.

The Australian Government provides the money for the bricks and tools, but its the men that make these sheds work, he said.

The funding for Denman and Merriwa sheds was provided under Round 5 of the Shed Development Program. Under this program, the Australian Government is providing $750,000 over three years through the Australian Mens Shed Association to provide financial assistance to eligible Mens Sheds across the country.

Round 6 of the grants program is now open for applications and will close on Friday 26 July 2013.