The Victorian Government is supporting all Victorians through the coronavirus pandemic, with $820,000 for a range of new measures to support the mental health and wellbeing for LGBTIQ communities.
Minister for Equality Martin Foley announced the funding on Sunday 17 May, which will help organisations to meet additional demand and provide the best support to vulnerable LGBTIQ Victorians at risk of homelessness and mental illness.
“We know the effects of this pandemic are being felt in complex and difficult ways among our LGBTIQ communities – so we’re supporting the organisations on the frontlines to ramp up their efforts and support more Victorians,” said Minister for Equality Martin Foley.
“The Victorian Pride Centre represents the best of our values – resilience, solidarity and community connection – and with the structure complete, we’re one step closer to providing a hub for LGBTIQ services.”
Established Victorian LGBTIQ organisations Switchboard Victoria, Thorne Harbour Health and Drummond Street Services will receive $450,000 to support the increased demand for counselling and support services for LGBTIQ individuals and their families impacted by coronavirus
In addition, $300,000 of the Government’s $59.4 million coronavirus mental health support will go to JOY 94.9 FM, Thorne Harbour Health, Switchboard Victoria. The Pride Cup, Celebrate Ageing and Drummond Street Services will also get extra $70,000 to support community connectedness and reduce the impacts of social isolation.
Victoria’s LGBTIQ communities will have a dedicated hub for many health and support services, entertainment and meetings when the Victorian Pride Centre opens in late 2020, with a virtual ‘topping out’ ceremony celebrated last month after the Centre’s structure was completed.
“LGBTIQ communities have shown yet again that we thrive on supporting each other and we need that now more than ever. We welcome funds from a government that not only recognises but prioritises this,” said Victorian Commissioner for Gender and Sexuality Ro Allen.
“The first thing I wanted to do when I became Commissioner was work with government to leave a lasting legacy for LGBTIQ communities in Victoria. I’m thrilled that the Victorian Pride Centre is almost complete.”
For more information, visit: www.vic.gov.au for details.