Foreign leaders addressing federal parliament could be forgiven for thinking Australian politicians are a hairy bunch.

Nationals MP Darren Chester, Liberal John Alexander and Labor’s Graham Perrett have formed a “moalition” to raise money for men’s health.

They didn’t realise when they planned to join forces for Movember this month they’d have to greet the British, Chinese and Indian leaders at parliament while sporting somewhat disreputable-looking moustaches.

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It hasn’t escaped the visitors’ notice – British prime minister David Cameron asked Mr Chester on Friday if he was channelling cricketer Merv Hughes.

Mr Chester’s sons are more impressed.

“They think it’s great because all the Australian cricketers are doing it,” he told AAP on Monday.

“My wife hates it.”

He sought his daughter’s permission because he’ll have to appear in her graduation and 18th birthday photos moustachioed.

Mr Perrett is due to replace his driver’s license so his mo-growth photo will linger in his wallet for a decade.

Beyond laughter and the exchange of grooming tips, the trio say their efforts have prompted many conversations with other men about health.

“I went at one stage 15 years without seeing a doctor and I thought that was good – then I got told that was bad,” Mr Alexander confesses.

“(Movember) just gives you license to say that’s what I’m doing and you’ve got to have a physical.”

Mr Perrett’s moustache has made him stand out on the streets of his Brisbane electorate and prompted much discussion.

They’re raising money to go to men’s health, cancer and mental health programs.

To date they’ve collected $810 but are yet to put the hard word on their parliamentary colleagues.

– AAP