The Carroll Labor Government is supporting Victoria’s young LGBTIQA+ communities.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today announced the winners of this year’s Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) grants.
Across Victoria, 12 community-led projects will share more than $100,000.
The grants focus on initiatives that promote diversity, reduce stigma and discrimination, and strengthen mental health and wellbeing for young LGBTIQA+ Victorians.
It’s about delivering inclusive activities, practical resources and safer spaces for young LGBTIQA+ Victorians.
Of the 12 projects, four are in rural and regional Victoria and eight in metropolitan Melbourne.
Some of the recipients include:
- Queer Joy – a youth-led program which will expand an LGBTIQA+ library and deliver social events and group outings for young people in the Bass Coast
- Worldbuilders – a series of creative workshops in Bendigo where young people design costumes, make props, and create fantasy characters
- Transforming the Narrative – bringing young trans and gender diverse writers together for a series of creative writing workshops, culminating in a book of short stories exploring their lived experiences.
Other recipients include creative programs, community events, and workshops about healthy relationships.
The Labor Government partners with the Youth Affairs Council Victoria to deliver the program.
The HEY grants program is crucial to helping build a stronger, more welcoming Victoria for all.
As stated by the Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
“Labor is backing young people to thrive – no matter what their gender identity or sexual orientation is.”
“HEY grants are vital in strengthening LGTBIQA+ communities – to help build a Victoria where everyone feels respected, safe and connected.”
As stated by the Minister for Equality Steve Dimopoulos
“We will always make sure young people across Victoria feel safe to express themselves, be who they want to be and get the support they need.”
