An advisory committee representing the LGBTQIA+ community has been established by the City of Greater Geelong.
Council said despite increased acceptance and visibility, the region’s proud and vibrant rainbow community unfortunately still faces disadvantage, such as discrimination, stigma, poor mental health and violence.
The establishment of an LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee presents an opportunity for the Council to more strongly engage with community members as it builds a safer and more inclusive region, it said.
The committee will provide advice and recommendations to Council on issues and barriers that affect this priority group and their families, and how to address them.
Members will promote and advocate for equality and social inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The new committee adds to the range of support initiatives run by the City, such as the Gender and Sexuality Project for young people, staff training and IDAHOBIT and Wear It Purple Day events.
The move follows a successful Notice of Motion in June from Diversity, Inclusion and LGBTIQ+ portfolio chair Sarah Mansfield to investigate the possibility of an LGBTQIA+ advisory committee.
Cr Mansfield said community members have been asking councillors for an LGBTQIA+ advisory committee.
“Councils play an important role in building community inclusion. Council’s Social Equity Framework identifies the LGBTQIA+ community as a priority group for the City of Greater Geelong, due to the barriers and discrimination members face,” Cr Mansfield said.
“By listening to the lived experiences and ideas of community members in the LGBTQIA+ community and taking meaningful action, we can improve health, wellbeing, and community participation.”
The committee will consist of one councillor, the City’s Director Community Life or delegate and up to 10 community members.
The City will advertise its search for members early next month, with council expected to be appoint members in November and the first meeting proposed for February next year.
