We are a not-for-profit organisation and rely on donations, fundraising and grants to carry out our work in improving the lives of LGBTIQA+ regional and rural Victorians.
You can read more about our work below.
Social Inclusion
We create safe, open and inclusive communities where diverse LGBTIQA+ people can thrive through meaningful participation in society and decision making where they feel heard, respected and valued.
Community Learning
We provide a space for the wider community to learn together, participate in conversations and take meaningful action towards LGBTIQA+ people being included and celebrated in all workplaces, organisations and schools.
Advocacy & Change
We advocate for improved LGBTIQA+ outcomes and dream big about what we can achieve when we work together as community members and allies.
WHY SPEAK EXISTS
LGBTIQA+ communities across regional and rural Victoria deserve better access to inclusive and safer support services.
According to ‘Queer Out Here’ 91% of students and teachers in regional and rural Victoria expressed a need for increased LGBTIQA+ education and awareness in their region.
More alarmingly, in 2021 it was reported that LGBTQA+ young people aged 16 to 17 are almost 5x more likely to have attempted suicide in their lifetime, than the general population. For young trans people aged 14-25, this statistic rises to a devastating 15x more likely.
Despite this data, there is little to no support services for LGBTIQA+ in regional and rural Victoria. Hence, why we created Speak.
HOW WE CAN CREATE CHANGE
In 2022, we launched two new programs thanks to donations and fundraising. Next year, we are launching another two new peer-led support programs in Ballarat.
Your donation will help us to continue what we’ve started and fund vital programs for LGBTIQA+ regional and rural Victorians and their families.
Our goal is to make sure everyone who needs support can access our life-saving programs.
All donations received will provide free-to-access support programs to LGBTIQA+ young people, transgender and gender diverse people as well as life-changing support for parents/carers/family members of LGBTIQA+ people.
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
We have a range of donation packages outlined below for you to choose from, or you can choose your own amount:
If you would like to chat to our team about a tailored donor package, please email us at hello@speak.org.au
There are many ways you can support to create safer and more inclusive spaces for LGBTIQA+ people.
Here are some ideas for you to show your support.
Booking inclusion training for your organisation, school or business
Purchase pride merchandise to signal safety and allyship to those around you
Post about Speak on your socials recommending us to your family, friends and colleagues.