LGBTIQ+ organisations and businesses across Victoria will receive a funding boost to support their recovery from the pandemic, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Equality Martin Foley announced that 25 businesses and organisations will share in $1.2 million through the new Revitalising the LGBTIQ+ Sector Fund.

The fund was established to support businesses and organisations who help Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ communities and had faced significant challenges throughout last year.

These challenges included increased demand for support services, public health restrictions and other financial pressures.

The businesses and organisations receiving grants of up to $50,000 include LGBTIQ+ youth organisation Minus18, who will use the funding to restart its LGBTIQ+ Young Leaders Program.

This program provides training and development for LGBTIQ+ people aged 18 to 25, who also create safe spaces and events for LGBTIQ+ people aged 12 to 19.

Iconic LGBTIQ+ venues will also receive support including The 86, which will extend its trading, and DT’s Hotel, which will provide employment opportunities for community members. Other businesses such as Hares and Hyenas and Idris Cosmetics will also receive grants.

Festivals such as ChillOut, Gaytimes and the Melbourne Queer Film Festival will receive funding to continue delivering their events for LGBTIQ+ communities, while Pony Club Gym and Pride Cup will receive grants to support the health of LGBTIQ+ Victorians.