Plenary lecture 1: The healthy male - Evolution of Australia's men's health programme.

Healthy Male [formerly Andrology Australia] was created in 2000 to improve community and professional awareness and education in male reproductive health [MRH]. Supported by the Federal Government, this national 'virtual centre' brings together experts to implement a collaborative strategy. Initially focussing on MRH issues [androgen use/ abuse, infertility, ED, testis cancer, prostate disease] HM recognised the linkages to chronic disease [cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health] and expanded its focus. The overall approach has been to first understand consumer needs, then assess the evidence, educate and upskill health professionals and finally "close the loop" through community education of what and how help can be accessed. Although not resourced as a research organisation the longitudinal "Men in Australia telephone survey" [MATeS, Lancet 2006] identified knowledge gaps for future attention. Core material was generated by expert advisory groups and collaborative programs developed with primary health practitioners and disadvantaged groups, such as indigenous people. Strong demand from grassroots organisations for evidence-based information has occurred for local and national use. Rebranding to "Healthy Male" in 2018, a new website and social media engagement expanded its profile. Most effort has been given to the primary care workforce, but specialist issues are being addressed e.g. IVF gynaecologists in male fertility care, the Endocrine Society re androgen guidelines, and HM trainee fellowships. A close relationship has been forged with the Federal Health Department with HM as a trusted resource for policy development, notably overseeing National Men's Health Strategy 2020-2030. Recognizing the need to better support young men from preconception though their first year of fatherhood, the "Plus Paternal Project" is currently developing a roadmap for action. HM is now well-recognized as a trusted resource in all sectors: its innovative, responsive and f