The Victorian Government is funding twelve diverse projects that will kick off in the regions this summer as part of Victoria’s Pride – a state wide celebration of LGBTIQA+ communities.
Minister for Equality Harriet Shing has announced the recipients of the Regional Activation Program of Victoria’s Pride, delivered by LGBTIQA+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma. Recipients will receive funding of up to $10,000 for projects showcasing regionally based LGBTIQA+ artists, voices and stories.
“I’m so excited to celebrate Victoria’s Pride later this year with our rainbow communities right across Victoria – there are some incredible events scheduled and I encourage everyone to get involved,” said Minister for Equality Harriet Shing.
“Victoria’s Pride is not just about embracing our amazing LGBTIQA+ communities but creating opportunities for our rainbow communities in the regions to express themselves and deepen connections in their towns.”
Victoria’s Pride begins in November, with the summer festival culminating in a one-day street party in Melbourne’s iconic Gertrude and Smith Street precinct on Sunday 9 February 2025.
“We are thrilled with the quality and breadth of projects this year across regional Victoria. These include new areas for Midsumma, many of which demonstrate the outcomes of significant capacity-building work undertaken in previous years,” said Midsumma CEO Karen Bryant.
The program showcases the creativity, joy and resilience of rainbow communities with events including Party in Pride, a free three-day LGBTIQA+ festival in Beechworth, and Queer Cakes & Butch Bakes, a community bake-off with pride in Castlemaine.
Self-expression will also be celebrated with Picture Me, a day of clothes swapping and free makeup and hair services in Warragul, as well as fourteen-and-nine-months, a coming-of-age short film set in Bendigo.
Tens of thousands of people are expected to take part in events and activities across the state, including Beechworth, Nathalia, Bendigo, South Gippsland, Warrnambool, Castlemaine, Mildura, Warragul, Wangaratta, Geelong, Horsham and Portland.
“The Regional Activation Program plays a crucial role in bridging the gap of geographical isolation for LGBTQIA+ individuals living in regional areas. It offers unique opportunities for connection, creativity, and community-building,” said Midsumma Festival Community Engagement Manager, Ashlee Hints.
The Victorian Government has led the nation in fostering inclusive communities where everyone can live safely and authentically, appointing Australia’s first Minister for Equality in 2014, and first Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities in 2015.
For more information on Victoria’s Pride Regional Activation Program, visit: www.midsumma.org.au for details.