The Allan Labor Government is continuing its commitment to fostering connection and inclusion for young LGBTIQA+ people in our community, with the latest round of Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) grants supporting local initiatives across Northcote and the inner north.

Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous, announced that Darebin City Council has received $10,000 to deliver its innovative "Surround" project. This project is designed to boost social connectedness and wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ young people in the local area through a series of targeted, empowering activities. Darebin City Council is is one of 13 community groups sharing in more than $100,000 of funding from the HEY program.

"Surround" will involve "SafeTALKs" mental health training for LGBTIQA+ young people, allies, and youth workers, equipping participants with essential skills to support each other and promote mental wellbeing. The program will culminate in a wellbeing-focused "school formal" event, co-designed with local LGBTIQA+ young people, schools, and community organisations, offering a safe, celebratory space for expression and connection.

Now in its 14th year, the HEY grants program aims to promote diversity, eliminate stigma and discrimination, and ensure young LGBTIQA+ Victorians are safe, empowered and celebrated. Delivered in partnership with the Youth Affairs Council Victoria, the grants have supported more than 120 organisations with over $1.3 million in funding since 2010.

The HEY grants program is part of the Labor Government’s support for programs that improve mental health outcomes for LGBTIQA+ Victorians across the state.

Since the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System handed down its final report, the Labor Government has invested more than $6 billion into Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system – the largest investment in mental health in the state’s history.

Quote attributable to Kat Theophanous, Member for Northcote

“The inner north a place where inclusion isn’t just a goal; it's our way of life. This initiative will help more young LGBTIQA+ people across our community feel valued, safe and supported to be their authentic selves. I’m proud to see our community leading the way in fostering respect and empowerment.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt

“The Healthy Equal Youth grants are supporting our young people to lead the way in initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusion while eliminating stigma and discrimination.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Equality Vicki Ward

“We’re focused on supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young LGBTIQA+ Victorians and building a future where everyone feels included and celebrated.”