The Allan Labor Government has taken a significant step to address family and gender-based violence within the LGBTIQA+ community by announcing funding for various support programs and organizations. This initiative aims to create safer spaces and promote inclusivity across Victoria.
With two in three LGBTIQA+ people experiencing family violence in their lives, this funding is crucial. The Victorian Government is committed to backing the LGBTIQA+ community by enhancing support programs and organizations that tackle all forms of violence.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Announces Funding Support
On Friday, Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, Melissa Horneannounced the funding support. She emphasized the importance of safety and inclusivity for all Victorians, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. “No one should live in fear because of who they are or who they love,” Minister Horne stated. “We’re supporting these organisations to continue delivering important programs that prevent violence and build a safer Victoria.”
Organizations Leading the Charge Against Violence
Supported by Rainbow Health Australiathe funding will bolster programs that prevent family and gender-based violence. These programs include:
Safe and Equal: Empowering LGBTIQA+ Organizations
Safe and Equal will support staff in LGBTIQA+ organizations to design and implement prevention initiatives and activities, fostering a culture of safety and inclusivity.
The Zoe Belle Gender Collective: Building Community Capacity
The Zoe Belle Gender Collective aims to build community capacity to tackle transphobia and homophobiacreating a more accepting and supportive environment for all.
Thorne Harbour Health: Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Male-Dominated Industries
Thorne Harbour Health will work with unions in male-dominated industries to improve understanding of the impacts of gender-based violence, promoting safer workplaces for all.
Proud 2 Play: Promoting Inclusivity in Sports
Proud 2 Play will expand its Rainbow Ready Program to ensure sporting clubs are safe and inclusive, challenging gender biases and norms to prevent violence.
Switchboard Victoria: Raising Awareness Through Podcasts
Switchboard Victoria will broadcast a podcast exploring the impacts of family violence on LGBTIQA+ young people and support for their families, raising awareness and fostering understanding.
Collaborative Efforts for Powerful Change
Jami JonesProgram Lead at Rainbow Health Australia, ARCSHS, La Trobe University, highlighted the importance of collaboration. “We can create powerful change for LGBTIQA+ people through working together,” Jones said. Each organization brings unique expertise to different areas of the LGBTIQA+ community, promoting safety and inclusivity for all Victorians.
Minister for Equality Vicki Ward reiterated Victoria’s commitment to equality. “Victoria is the Equality State. We stand with LGBTIQA+ communities across Victoria; backing them in building safe spaces, preventing harm, and fostering a culture where everyone truly belongs and feels respected and equal.”
Sport as a Catalyst for Change
Proud 2 Playa leading Australian organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQI+ inclusion in sports and recreation, will expand its Rainbow Ready Program. Kade Matthews from Proud 2 Play explained the significance of sports as a place-based setting. “We can meet people where they’re at to have conversations rather than wait for them to come into a clinic or a shelter,” Matthews said. By partnering with regional women’s health organizations, Proud 2 Play aims to challenge gender biases and norms, preventing violence and promoting inclusivity.
Matthews emphasized the value of collaborating with established partners. “We think it’s really valuable being in this collection of partners who are really well established and have good track records and relationships in delivering programs in our community,” he said. This collaboration ensures stronger pathways for preventing LGBTIQA+ family and gender-based violence.
