SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY is challenging Tasmanians to think beyond why mental health matters to how communities can create environments where conversations actually happen.
The annual Shorts Day initiative, which encourages people to wear shorts on the shortest day of the year to “brave the cold and brave the conversation”, attracted more than 23,000 participants across Australia in 2025.
This June 19, thousands of people across Tasmania and beyond will once again come together in their brightest pair of shorts to brave the cold and brave the conversation.
SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY founder Mitch McPherson said this year’s campaign focuses on helping communities move from understanding mental health to actively supporting one another.
McPherson established the organisation in 2013 after his younger brother Ty died by suicide.
“People know mental health matters. What we’re seeing now is that people want to know how to talk about it and how to create spaces where those conversations feel safe,” he said.
“Shorts Day has always been about starting conversations, and this year we’re focusing on the environments around us.”
“When people feel supported, respected and safe, conversations happen naturally, and that’s where real change happens.”
Online search behaviour shows Australians are increasingly asking practical questions about mental health, including how to start conversations and check in on someone.
RACT chief experience officer Karla Wasinski said creating psychologically safe environments was essential for both workplaces and community wellbeing.
“We live in a world that can seem to be moving in the wrong direction when it comes to human connection. Psychologically safe environments have never been more important,” she said.
“They can be created by listening without judgment, encouraging questions, showing respect and making it clear that it’s okay to speak up or ask for help.”
Registrations are open at www.shortsday.com.au for individuals and organisations wanting to raise awareness, host conversations or fundraise for Tasmanian mental health initiatives.
