The Victorian Government is continuing to deliver a fairer Victoria by supporting leaders in our lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse, intersex, queer and questioning (LGBTIQ) communities through the next round of the LGBTIQ Leadership program.
Across various sectors and industries, LGBTIQ Victorians show how passion, energy, resilience, visibility and courage through leadership can create more inclusive workplaces and communities.
“Victoria’s LGBTIQ leaders are guiding us into a future where diversity is celebrated and recognised as a strength,” said Minister for Equality, Martin Foley. “This program will support our progress towards equality and develop our next generation of leaders so that we can ensure Victoria remains the equality state, well into the future.”
Delivered in partnership with Leadership Victoria, the program gives emerging leaders the chance to build their leadership and organisational management skills, as well as network with existing and emerging LGBTIQ leaders. It provides a welcoming and inclusive space for a range of perspectives and experiences, to inform what it means to be an effective LGBTIQ leader.
Due to coronavirus (COVID-19) work has begun with Leadership Victoria to adjust the program to enable online delivery, supporting social distancing measures alongside broader efforts to protect the health and wellbeing of the LGBTIQ community.
The program is supported by the Commissioner for Gender and Sexuality, who plays an important sponsorship and leadership role in the program, alongside established LGBTIQ and ally leaders who mentor participants.
“Over the first two years of this course it’s been terrific to see LGBTIQ leaders flourish through the peer support this course provides them, along with the support from the Victorian government investing in and valuing their authentic leadership,” said Gender and Sexuality Commissioner, Ro Allen.
LGBTIQ Victorians of all backgrounds are encouraged to get involved – especially people from regional and rural areas, people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and Victorians from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
By supporting strong and capable LGBTIQ leaders, we are one step closer to realising our shared vision for a Victoria where everyone is equal. Expressions of interest are open now. For more information, visit: www.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Minister for Equality, Martin Foley (supplied)