The Allan Labor Government is supporting older LGBTIQA+ Victorians to stay connected across East Gippsland, Wodonga, Warrnambool and Golden Plains with the appointment of four Regional Coordinators.
Minister for Equality Vicki Ward announced the positions as part of Pride in Ageing, a pilot program led by Switchboard and co-designed with older LGBTIQA+ Victorians. The program will boost visibility, inclusion and wellbeing through local events, peer networks and community partnerships.
The four Regional Coordinators will lead local initiatives to reduce isolation and expand opportunities for older LGBTIQA+ Victorians to feel safe and respected in their communities.
Older LGBTIQA+ Victorians often face barriers to accessing services and experience higher levels of loneliness, discrimination and poor mental health.
This initiative delivers on Pride in our Future: Victoria's LGBTIQA+ Strategy 2022-2032 as well as the Ageing Well Action Plan 2022-2025, prioritising safe, healthy and socially connected ageing for all Victorians.
To get involved or to find out more, visit switchboard.org.au/prideinageing.
As stated by Minister for Equality Vicki Ward
"In Victoria, equality is not negotiable. We're focused on making sure older LGBTIQA+ Victorians in regional communities can age with pride, strong community and social connections and dignity."
"Older LGBTIQA+ Victorians have a wealth of ideas and experience to share, and I look forward to seeing the thoughts and solutions that come out of this program as it unfolds."
As stated by Minster for Ageing Ingrid Stitt
"We want to make sure older LGBTIQA+ Victorians not only remain connected members of their own communities but also have services that are safe and welcoming for them."
"All Victorians have a right to safely age in place, maintain their independence and take part in their community."
As stated by Switchboard CEO Jenna Tuke
"Through a co-design approach, we ensure that the voices and lived experiences of older LGBTI+ people - and those who care for or support them - are at the centre of the design, planning and delivery."
