Each group will receive up to $10,000 each, using the funding for a wide range of purposes including education and training, community development and creation, arts and culture to help support Australian LGBTQIA+ communities.
“We’re thrilled to see the ANZ and Sydney Mardi Gras Community Grants awarded to individuals and organisations that are working hard to improve the lives of people in the LGBTQIA+ community,” ANZ Chief Financial Officer and Executive Sponsor of ANZ Pride Michelle Jablko says. “These projects will make a real difference to many Australians and we can’t wait to see their progress in the community.”
The ANZ and Mardi Gras partnership has spanned over 12 years and the programme is an extension of this.
“Community groups and not-for-profit organisations around Australia are doing such great work for LGBTQIA+ causes, and we’re so excited to be able to support them in their projects,” Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO Grant Lowe says. “This year’s grants have included four trans and non-binary projects, projects aimed at youth and elderly, first nations, mental health, and people living with a disability.”
ANZ and Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras Community Grants Recipients
ACON (NSW)
A health organisation specialising in community health, inclusion and HIV/AIDS responses for people of diverse sexualities and genders.
All The Queen's Men (VIC)
Runs the LGBTQIA+ Elders Dance Club, a project inspired by research regarding elders feeling unsafe revealing their sexual orientation or gender identity when accessing aged care service.
Asylum Seekers Centre (NSW)
A non-profit organisation providing practical and personal support to people living in the community who are seeking asylum.
Australian Sign Language Interpreters Association (NSW)
A not-for-profit organisation representing the interests of AUSLAN interpreters. The project is aimed at increasing knowledge, awareness, and improving the skills of AUSLAN interpreters by providing resources and workshops.
Defence LGBTI Information Service (ACT)
Supports and represents LGBTQIA+ veterans and serving members of the Australian Defence Force.
House Of Silky (NSW)
One of the leading vogue houses in the Oceanic ballroom scene. Made up of nine queer and trans POC sister of Asia-Pacifika and African diaspora. It aims to create a space of refuge and provide AIDS testing booths, discussion panels, and healthy competition.
Kim Leutwyler (NSW)
A Sydney-based artist who explores notions of beauty, gender, and queer identity in her art. Kim is also an Archibald Prize finalist.
Melbourne Trans And Gender Diverse Film Festival Inc (VIC)
Showcases and supports the work of trans filmmakers and artists, and works with trans content. The festival uses film and storytelling to positively contribute to diversifying and increasing trans voices.
Open Doors Youth Service Inc (QLD)
The leading LGBTQIA+ youth service in Queensland, working with young people aged 12-24 at risk of/are disengaging with community and/or experiencing homelessness.
Proud 2 Play (VIC)
Focuses on increasing LGBTQIA+ engagement in sport, exercise, and active recreation. It works with all levels of the sporting community, from individual participants and grassroots communities, to state and national sporting organisations.
Teddy Darling (VIC)
Plans to host a one-day artist festival and market to provide trans creators and artists with an opportunity to develop and showcase their work, focusing on small-scale handwork, written work, zines, plants, and homemade artisanal goods.
Wendybird (QLD)
An LGBTQIA+ not-for-profit community group working to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the LGBTQIA+ community through active community engagement.
