- Published:
- Tuesday 30 January 2018
The Andrews Labor Government is getting behind new projects aimed at improving the mental health and wellbeing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer young people.
Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley today announced 12 organisations will share in more than $111,000 as part of the latest round of Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) grants.
The HEY Project aims to raise awareness, promote diversity, eliminate stigma and discrimination, and improve the overall mental health of young LGBTIQ+ people.
The Labor Government is investing nearly $6 million in the HEY Project over four years.
The grants program is coordinated by Youth Affairs Council Victoria.
Round seven recipients include SYN Media, which will use government support to produce radio programs and podcasts on issues affecting LGBTIQ+ young people.
Knox City Council will create a series of short animated films sharing lived experiences and information for local youth.
Other recipients include Maroondah City Council Youth Services, The Victorian & Tasmanian Youth Cancer Service, Mornington Peninsula Shire, Wyndham City Youth Services, Wellington Shire Council, Inclusion Melbourne, Drummond Street Services, Headspace Horsham, Glenroy College and Embittered Swish.
For more information on the grants visit yacvic.org.au/get-involved/hey-grants
Victoria’s 10-year Mental Health Plan aims to reduce the stigma around mental health and give people with a mental illness and their families the support they need.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
“We know that LGBTIQ+ young people often experience mental health issues because of exposure to bullying and abuse.”
“These grants are all about improving the quality of life for some of our most vulnerable young people.”
“By backing organisations to kickstart new projects, we will make a real difference in the LGBTIQ+ community and change young lives.”