The Victorian Government is backing new ideas and local events that celebrate LGBTIQA+ pride in the lead-up to Victoria’s Pride 2026 festival.
Minister for Equality Vicki Ward has announced that expressions of interest for the Victoria’s Pride Regional Activation Program – supporting regional and rural events that showcase LGBTIQA+ artists, voices and experiences are now open.
“We want every LGBTIQA+ Victorian – no matter where they live – to feel proud, seen and celebrated,” said Minister for Equality Vicki Ward. “These grants will help bring communities together in powerful, joyful and creative ways across regional Victoria.”
Grants of up to $10,000 are available for community groups, councils and organisations to deliver inclusive events that help connect LGBTIQA+ communities and celebrate pride across the state.
Delivered in partnership with leading LGBTIQA+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma, Victoria’s Pride is a statewide celebration of pride that culminates in a one-day street party in Fitzroy’s Gertrude and Smith streets in February 2026.
“We are so proud to deliver this initiative on behalf of the Victorian Government that not only supports the growth of regional artists and communities, but amplifies LGBTQIA+ voices,” said Midsumma Festival CEO and Creative Director Karen Bryant.
“This initiative celebrates creativity and lived experiences through the arts, and places diverse regional identities at the heart of Victoria’s Pride, both now and into the future.”
The regional program gives more Victorians the chance to support and celebrate rainbow communities, while amplifying the stories, creativity and contributions of LGBTIQA+ people.
More than 25,000 people took part in Victoria’s Pride regional events this year, including events like Queer Cakes & Butch Bakes: A Community Bake-Off with Pride in Castlemaine, and Picture Me, a day of clothes swapping and free makeup and hair tutorials in Warragul.
The Government has invested $6.8 million for Victoria’s Pride to celebrate LGBTIQA+ Victorians.
Applications for Victoria’s Pride Regional Activation Program are now open and close Tuesday 5 August 2025. For more information and to apply, visit: www.midsumma.org.au for details.