Boost for the lgbtiq+ sector to support recovery in daylesford

LGBTIQ+ organisations and businesses across Victoria will receive a funding boost to support their recovery from the pandemic, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, announced that ChillOut and Hepburn House are two of 24 businesses and organisations across Victoria that will share in $1.2 million through the new Revitalising the LGBTIQ+ Sector Fund.

ChillOut Festival received $50,000 to support the development of the strategy, people and resources needed to sustain the organisation into its 25th anniversary year.

Daylesford Aged Care’s Hepburn House received $50,000 to support residents and vulnerable members of the LGBTIQ+ 55 years and older community that have been adversely affected by the pandemic to access services and decrease isolation and loneliness

The fund was established to support businesses and organisations who help Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ communities and had faced significant challenges throughout last year.

These challenges included increased demand for support services, public health restrictions and other financial pressures.

Other businesses and organisations that have recieved grants include LGBTIQ+ youth organisation Minus18, The 86, Hares and Hyenas, Gaytime, the Pride Cup and the Melbourne Queer Film Festival

Quote attributable to Minister for Equality Martin Foley
"We are backing in Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ organisations and businesses so they can continue to provide their critical services to LGBTIQ+ Victorians."

Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"I’m delighted to see ChillOut and Hepburn House receive funding to ensure that they can continue supporting our LGBTIQ+ community here in Daylesford."