The Allan Labor Government is continuing to support Victoria’s young LGBTIQA+ communities across the northern Victoria through the latest round of the Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) grants.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes has confirmed that programs in Shepparton, Swan Hill and Rochester are three of 15 community-led projects who will share $100,000 in funding through the 2025 HEY grants round.

Now in its 15th year, the HEY grants program supports initiatives that promote diversity, reduce stigma and discrimination, and strengthen mental health and wellbeing for young LGBTIQA+ Victorians.

The Labor Government partners with the Youth Affairs Council Victoria to deliver the program in northern Victoria, which has supported more than 135 projects and provided more than $1.4 million in funding since 2010.

As a recipient of this year’s grant program, Berry Street - Education First Youth Foyer Shepparton will use the funds to create essential kits for LGBTQIA+ young people in the Yorta Yorta region who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Swan Hill Rural City Council will use the funds for its new Equalize Program – an initiative designed by LGBTQIA+ young people to build a more inclusive community in Swan Hill. Rochester Secondary College will use the funds for their student led Pride Club, which creates a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for LGBTIQA+ students.

The 2025 round supports eight projects in rural and regional Victoria, supporting access to inclusive and affirming spaces across the state. Notably, nine of the 15 projects are youth-led, placing young LGBTIQA+ people at the centre of project design and delivery.

The HEY grants program forms part of the Labor Government’s broader work to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes for LGBTIQA+ Victorians across the state.

A list of recipients can be found at yacvic.org.au/get-involved/hey/hey-grants/.

Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes

“These projects help ensure regional LGBTIQA+ young people feel safe, supported and empowered in their communities.”