The Victorian Pride Centre will receive up to $1M over four years from the Australian Government’s Proceeds of Crime Program to strengthen the safety, security and long‑term resilience of Australia’s first purpose‑built home for LGBTIQA+ communities.
TWiSK understands that the Pride Centre has struggled with security costs for some time, and this was cited in last year’s decision to close on Sundays, except for special events like the monthly “Sunday Sizzle” (first Sunday of the month) or pre‑booked events.
Following the announcement of the security grant, CEO Paul Horwell detailed some of the challenges facing the Centre.
“Security has been one of the most important priorities at the Victorian Pride Centre, as LGBTIQA+ organisations and community spaces across Australia are navigating heightened external pressures.
“We have a lot of people come to the VPC throwing insults through the front doors, protesting events like drag story time, as well as break‑ins and normal security issues,” he said.
“This funding really helps us build the infrastructure that we need to upgrade things like CCTV, and make sure we’ve got decent patrols around the Centre so that everyone is safe and secure.
“We’ve got 14 charitable organisations who look after our LGBTIQA+ community in various forms who call this home, whether that be sexual or mental health.
“We really want to make sure that people come to work and have a secure building to work in.
“We’re a great community, and we look after one another, and that’s part of what we are here to do. Safety is fundamental to belonging, and belonging is at the heart of everything we do at the VPC.
“Strengthening our security allows us to keep focusing on what matters most: creating a place where people can connect, celebrate, find support and feel proud of who they are.
“We are grateful for this partnership and for the trust placed in us to continue serving our diverse and resilient community. The safety and well‑being of our visitors, residents and staff are always at the centre of our work.
“We know that many minority communities, including LGBTIQA+ people, are experiencing increased pressure, and it means a great deal that this is being recognised.”
Thanks to Q News for CEO quotes
Picture (L-R) Sarah Witty MP, VPC CEO Paul Horwell, Ged Kearney MP, Josh Burns MP, Julian Hill MP and VPC Board Chair Craig Bell.
