As part of the new and confronting campaign Polished Man, about 30 mechanics, trade assistants and tow truck drivers from Heritage Motors Maitland have coated their nails in shades of pink, blue and purple to raise both money and awareness of sexual and physical violence against children.

The other aim of the campaign is to begin a conversation about how men can become leaders in ending the violence. A concept not lost on Matt Birch, the man behind the Maitland leg of the campaign.

“I’ve never had my nails painted before, and I don’t think I will again, but it’s all for a good cause,” Mr Birch, 23, of Tenambit, said.

“I was actually quite shocked at how many guys stepped forward to do this, but it has been great because the more support there is the easier these battles are to fight.”

Ambassadors for the national campaign – which kicks off on Monday – include Australian rules footballer Chris Judd, actor Gyton Grantley, singer Dan Sultan and World Vision CEO Tim Costello. 

“This is the first time I’ve ever had my nails painted and it feels a bit weird, so there won’t be any regular manicures for me, but it’s for a good cause,” Tim Reeve, 18, of East Maitland, said.

Jordan Effer, 18, of Woodberry, is also proud to be a polished man.

“Having my nails painted actually didn’t feel too bad and they’re nice and glossy, but I don’t think that will last,” he said.

Fellow apprentice mechanic Ben Barlow, 19, of Weston, said being a polished man was also about being part of the Maitland community.

“I’ve never had my nails painted for anything and it feels strange, I don’t know how women do it, but I might do it again if the right cause comes up,” Mr Barlow said.

While most men don’t perpetrate violence, about 90 per cent of all violence committed against children is perpetrated by men.

Most of this violence happens behind closed doors and is committed by people known to the child.

“This is such a worthy cause and it’s good to get involved in things if you can,” Jacob Fisher, 22, of Largs, said.

“I’ve never had my nails painted before and it felt very different, but it’s all good and fun. I’d definitely do it again.”

Polished Man will fund preventative measures to end violence against children through international projects and in Australia. The campaign runs until September 15.

For more information visit www.polishedman.com.au