The Victorian Pride Centre wishes to acknowledge and thank the Minister for Equality, Martin Foley and the State Government for their significant additional contribution of $10M towards the construction of the Victorian Pride Centre.

The funding announcement was made onsite at the Pride Centre prior to the start of Sunday’s 25th LGBTIQ Pride March, hosted by Midsumma.

In making the announcement Minister Foley said, “The Victorian Pride Centre will be a valuable space for generations of LGBTIQ people and an assurance to all Victorians that in this state – equality is not negotiable.”

In response to the announcement Chair of the Victorian Pride Centre, Jude Munro AO said, “This is brilliant news for the community and our Pride Centre. It will have a really positive impact on how the centre operates and delivers our community’s and the Victorian Government’s vision of an inclusive hub for Victoria’s LGBTIQ community.”

Cost of construction of the Pride Centre is set at $35.5M, with financing in place. These additional funds will reduce the Pride Centre’s reliance on financing and make a significant impact on the operations and sustainability of the Pride Centre.

The Pride Centre’s business model is premised on a number of factors including sponsorships, commercial and LGBTIQ organisations rentals and philanthropy. Additional support from the State Government puts the Pride Centre on even firmer financial footing.

The Pride Centre will continue to reach out to the community and others for their support, in order to ensure the centre is a safe, welcoming and vibrant place, now and for generations to come.

Image: Minister Foley and Board Chair Jude Munro AO, interviewed on site in St Kilda.