Victoria is now home to a community hub for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) communities, with the opening of the landmark Victorian Pride Centre.
Premier, Daniel Andrews said Australia’s first purpose-built Centre would celebrate Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ communities, honour their past and support organisations and groups driving equality across the State.
“At the Centre, LGBTIQ+ communities can access inclusive services, connect with each other, celebrate who they are, learn about LGBTIQ+ history and appreciate LGBTIQ+ art and performances at the centre’s theatrette and gallery,” Mr Andrews said.
“A range of deeply-trusted LGBTIQ+ organisations will be based at the Centre, including health services, LGBTIQ+ media outlets and others,” he said.
“The Australian Queer Archives will be based at the Centre, enabling the public to have unprecedented access to its collection.”
Mr Andrews said the Centre also included a reflection room and other event, social and co-working spaces.
The Premier said the community hub was supported by a virtual Pride Centre, an online directory of resources and events to support LGBTIQ+ people to celebrate and connect with each other, wherever they were in the State.
He said $25 million in funding had gone towards the Centre and $1.9 million would go towards Melbourne Pride 2021, to be held on 5 December, “which will be one of the most significant LGBTIQ+ events in Victoria’s history”.
“Marking the 40-year anniversary of the decriminalisation of sex between men in Victoria, Melbourne Pride will let Victorians show their support for LGBTIQ+ communities, with activities across regional Victoria and a one-day street party in Melbourne’s inner north,” Mr Andrews said.
More information about the Victorian Pride Centre can be accessed at this PS News link.
