The Albanese Government is delivering on its $78,000 election commitment to support LGBTIQA+ news outlets.
Digital publishers QNews in Brisbane, OUTinPerth and the Star Observer in Sydney - some of Australia's largest publications for LGBTIQA+ communities - will each receive $26,000 to continue to develop unique stories that inform and connect communities around Australia.
The funding was provided through the LGBTIQA+ Community Connection Program to deliver on the government's election commitment to support community connection, participation and empowerment by lifting up LGBTIQA+ media and voices.
It follows a $250,000 election commitment delivered for JOY Media in Melbourne, Australia's first and only LGBTIQA+ community radio station.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:
"We are committed to fostering a diverse media landscape across Australia, by supporting community-based outlets to bring people together through stories and voices they can relate to.
"More than $320,000 has been invested through the LGBTIQA+ Community Connection which will help empower independent publishers to continue to celebrate and showcase our diverse and vibrant communities."
Quotes attributable to Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek MP:
"The Star Observer is synonymous with the long, hard road to LGBTIQA+ equality.
"Since its launch in 1979, the Star Observer has reported on the issues at the heart of our LGBTIQA+ community: documenting the devastation of the HIV/Aids pandemic, exposing gay hate crimes while also celebrating the wins.
"From the decriminalisation of homosexuality through to marriage equality and trans rights, it's hard to imagine Sydney without the Star Observer's unique blend of light and shade portrayals of our LGBTIQA+ community."
Quotes attributable to Member for Perth Patrick Gorman MP:
"I back publications that shine a light on proud Perth stories.
"OUTinPerth has long been a harbour for diversity and inclusion, fostering connection, understanding and belonging across the Perth electorate while amplifying the voices of those in the LGBTIQA+ community.
"I am proud to deliver our $26,000 commitment to support the OUTinPerth publication, continuing its great service to our community."
Quotes attributable to Member for Brisbane Madonna Jarrett:
"I'm proud to be delivering this funding for QNews which has been a strong voice for the LGBTIQA+ community and its allies. Its real-life stories of culture, arts, discrimination, acceptance, and much more, demonstrate the need for the continued backing of this beautiful community.
"QNews provides an important platform for our LGBTIQ+ local stories to be told and the publication reflects what makes Brisbane a great place to live."
Quote attributable to Member for Griffith Renee Coffey:
"QNews is a Brisbane institution that has been giving a voice to the LGBTIQA+ community for 25 years - not only telling the LGBTIQA+ community's stories, but also delivering important, community-specific information when it's needed."
