The Andrews Labor Government is supporting a month-long festival to highlight the skills and achievements of young Victorians in their communities.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman today announced $220,000 to support up to 110 youth-led events, designed for and by young Victorians.
Grants of $2,000 are available for youth sector organisations, local government and schools to develop events in partnership with Victorians aged 12 to 25.
Funding for Youth Fest, which kicks off in September, will support young people to organise and deliver events and showcase their skills, encourage them to share ideas, build social connections with their peers and community, and expand their networks.
In 2022, the Youth Fest program funded 110 arts, sporting and recreational activities and community festivals, giving young people across Victoria a chance to have their voices heard.
Previous grant recipients include Hume Central Secondary College, which hosted multiple wellbeing activities during R U OK? Day, Nillumbik Shire Council to support the Nillumbik Youth Takeover and Greater Dandenong City Council which hosted Fierce 2022, an all-abilities festival to promote participation in sports and arts.
In addition, Echuca Moama Arts Initiative hosted a ceramics workshop at The Foundry Art Space, Towong Shire Council facilitated Colour Fun Run to promote wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ young people and the Juniors Roller Derby Day rolled out at Bendigo Showgrounds thanks to Dragon City Roller Derby.
Applications are open until 10 March. To apply and to find out more about the grant program, visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“We are proud to support youth-led events that promote the talents of young Victorians. These events are integral to building a sense of community and amplifying the voices of young people.”
“Victorian Youth Fest provides young people from across our state with unique opportunities to bring their ideas to life and lead positive change, in partnership their peers and youth-led organisations.”
Quotes attributable to Ruby, 18, Nillumbik Youth Takeover participant
“Victorian Youth Fest gave me the opportunity to work professionally as a young music artist and be paid for my gigs in the local community.”
“It also gave me the chance to meet other young artists, musicians and people in the industry, helping me grow my network and hopefully my career.”
Reviewed 14 February 2023