The Victorian Government is supporting event organisers to host a range of inclusive events celebrating Victoria’s diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) communities.
Minister for Equality Harriet Shing has announced the opening of the Pride Events and Festivals Fund for 2024-25, with $400,000 in grants available across two funding streams for events that celebrate the identity, history and achievements of LGBTIQA+ communities.
“Events that celebrate and recognise LGBTIQA+ people, their families, and allies send a powerful message – by creating these opportunities for people to connect, we are making it clear that everyone has the right to live equally, and with dignity and safety,” said Minister for Equality, Harriet Shing.
“We are determined to support LGBTIQA+ communities and to combat the stigma, exclusion and discrimination that all too often lead to life-long trauma and disadvantage, because in Victoria, equality is not negotiable.”
Grants of up to $10,000 are available for eligible small events and festivals, while large LGBTIQA+ events and festivals can apply for grants between $10,001 and $25,000.
The program acknowledges the importance of LGBTIQA+ communities gathering together in celebration, fostering pride and social connection. Organisations proposing events in peri-urban, rural, regional and remote Victoria are strongly encouraged to apply.
Since the program’s inception in 2018, more than 200 events right across Victoria have been supported such as regional writers’ festivals, family friendly events, Pride Cups, film festivals and music and arts activities.
Last year, the Geelong Pride Film Festival received more than $9,000 for its volunteer-run film festival that screens LGBTIQA+ themed feature films, short films, and documentaries.
In the same round, LINE Wangaratta received $25,000 to expand its Pride Fair Day, providing an opportunity for regional and geographically-isolated LGBTIQA+ people to celebrate LGBTIQA+ community arts, culture and music and form social connections.
Applications for the Pride Events and Festivals Fund are now open and close on 11 September 2024. For more information and to apply, visit: www.vic.gov.au for details.