The state government is calling for organisations and groups in Hume and Whittlesea that support LGBTIQA+ communities to apply for grants that will help them strengthen their work and grow.
Applications for LGBTIQA+ Organisational Development Grants are open until April 30.
The annual grants program established by the Labor Government in 2016 helps organisations and groups grow their capacity to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) communities across Victoria.
Recipients are supported to run a range of activities including training and mentoring for staff and volunteers, expanding their work into regional Victoria, and plan for the future of their organisations.
Equality Minister Harriet Shing said equality is of the utmost importance, and these grants help to make that sentiment a reality.
“We’re strengthening the community-led LGBTIQA+ sector with grants that help organisations and groups build safe, supported and inclusive communities in Victoria,” she said.
“In Victoria, equality is not negotiable. These grants will provide vital support to organisations and groups that contribute to the economic and social inclusion needs of LGBTIQA+ communities being met across the state now and well into the future.”
Established groups and those with demonstrated experience in serving LGBTIQA+ communities can apply for grants of up to $40,000, while newer organisations or those with limited experience can apply for grants of up to $20,000.
Applications are particularly encouraged from groups that support engagement with diverse LGBTIQA+ communities, including regional and rural communities across Victoria.
Strengthening the LGBTIQA+ sector through grants programs is part of the Government’s efforts to drive equality in Victoria, aligned with the Pride in our Future: Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ strategy 2022-32.
The Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council received a grant in 2023 to engage a consultant to assist with organisational development activities, to help them continue their work in supporting the LGBTIQA+ multicultural and faith communities in Victoria.
The Gippsland Pride Initiative also received a grant for infrastructure to improve the support, representation and advocacy they provide for LGBTIQA+ communities across Gippsland.
Since 2016, the program has helped more than 100 LGBTIQA+ organisations to further develop their operations and expertise.
Apply: vic.gov.au/lgbtiqa-organisational-development-grants.
