The State Government is standing with young queer, transgender and gender diverse Victorians and their families, with a fast-tracked funding boost to give them better access to vital health and support services.
The recent public debate around legal protections for young LGBTIQ+ Australians has had a significant impact on their wellbeing and that of their families and loved ones.
Young same-sex attracted people are already five times more likely to attempt suicide – and young transgender Australians are 15 times more likely. Believing that the Commonwealth has failed to provide support and subjected these communities to weeks of harmful and divisive rhetoric, the State Government has stepped in.
Premier Daniel Andrews reinforced the government’s stance on equality.
“It’s pretty simple. All people, whether gay or straight or transgender, deserve support and protection. That is our record – and the Commonwealth government ought to be ashamed,” Premier Andrews said.
Responding to any additional demand and making sure young LGBTIQ+ people know that in Victoria equality is not negotiable, the government will deliver a $200,000 package for local organisations that provide crucial support to the LGBTIQ+ community.
The investment will consist of $150,000 for the broader LGBTIQ+ community – with $50,000 each to Switchboard Victoria, Thorne Harbour Health and Drummond Street.
A further $50,000 will be dedicated to boosting support for trans and gender diverse Victorians, split between Transcend and Parents of Gender Diverse Children.
This extra support will make sure these organisations can manage any increased demand for their services including counselling and family therapy, referrals and peer supports to ensure LGBTIQ+ young people, their families and carers get the support and guidance they need, as soon as they need it.
In addition to this package, an extra $15,000 will support Transcend to deliver a social media campaign providing positive messages to trans and gender diverse young people, their families, allies and wider community.
The funding announcement coincides with the inaugural Melbourne Pride Street party on Sunday 13 February, celebrating Victoria’s vibrant, diverse queer community.
Minister for Mental Health James Merlino endorsed the government’s action.
“The debate this week in Canberra has put our young LGBTIQ+ communities at risk. We’re sending queer and gender diverse Victorians a message that in this state, you are loved, supported and welcome to be exactly who you are,” Mr Merlino said.
