Sarah Oliver
The state government has announced it will deliver a $200,000 package for local organisations that provide crucial support to the LGBTIQ+ community in Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and across the state.
In a statement, the state government said: “The recent unnecessary, hurtful public debate around legal protections for young LGBTIQ+ Australians has had a significant impact on their wellbeing and that of their families and loved ones”.
Young same-sex attracted people are already five times more likely to attempt suicide, and young transgender Australians are 15 times more likely.
“That’s why the Labor government is stepping in to provide support where the Commonwealth has failed and subjected these communities to weeks of harmful and divisive rhetoric,” the statement read.
The investment will consist of $150,000 for the broader LGBTIQ+ community, with $50,000 each to Switchboard Victoria, Thorne Harbour Health and Drummond Street.
A further $50,000 will be dedicated to boosting support for trans and gender diverse Victorians, split between Transcend and Parents of Gender Diverse Children.
“It’s pretty simple. All people, whether gay or straight or transgender, deserve support and protection,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.
Mental health minister James Merlino said: “The debate this week in Canberra has put our young LGBTIQ+ communities at risk. We’re sending queer and gender diverse Victorians a message that in this state, you are loved, supported and welcome to be exactly who you are.”
