$500,000 to support LGBTIQA+ youth in regional WA

  • McGowan Government investing $500,000 to support LGBTIQA+ youth in regional WA
  • 12 month regional pilot programs to commence in Geraldton, Bunbury and Kalgoorlie-Boulder
  • Focus on building healthy, inclusive and connected communities 
  • A project will be rolled out in three regional hubs to deliver vital counselling services for young people who live in regional Western Australia and identify as LGBTIQA+, that also aims to build community capacity to support gender and sexually diverse groups.

    Geraldton, Bunbury and Kalgoorlie-Boulder will host the pilots which will be run by the WAAC, formerly the WA AIDS Council, with funding through the Mental Health Commission.

    The needs of LGBTIQA+ youth in regional and rural areas are complex and while they have similarities, each regional area will require a tailored approach. The $500,000 project will provide direct support to young people, explore the broader issues they face and deliver workshops and information to school students, educators, healthcare professionals, caregivers and parents.

    WAAC is a not-for-profit organisation that welcomes and supports people from all walks of life and aims to build healthy, inclusive, connected communities. It focuses on optimising the health, sexual health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people through reducing stigma and discrimination and improving access to health services and information.  

    As stated by Mental Health Minister Stephen Dawson:

    “Building healthy, inclusive and connected communities is so important for the future of all Western Australians. 

    “Our young people are the future of our State and we as a Government are committed to helping each and every one of them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

    “Young LGBTIQA+ people face a unique set of challenges and living in a regional area means it can sometimes be harder to find the right support. These programs will help bridge that gap.

    “This month is PrideFEST in WA – a time to celebrate all people of diverse sexuality and gender, their community, culture and artistic expression. It is a great reminder for all of us that we need to support and encourage our young people to live their best lives.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.