ANZ and Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras provide community support for the third year running
ANZ and Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras has opened applications for their combined national LGBTIQ+ community grants program.
The ANZ and Sydney Mardi Gras Community Grants program aims to increase support and inclusivity for the LGBTIQ+ community nationwide by providing grants of up to $10,000 to LGBTIQ+ not-for-profit community organisations, charities and individuals.
ANZ research commissioned earlier this year found that the majority of Australia’s LGBTIQ+ community have been the victim of hurtful or homophobic language (69%) in the past 12 months. By contrast, less than half of non-LGBTIQ+ Australians believe that there’s an issue with hurtful language directed at the community (41%), demonstrating the need to further support the community, and groups helping champion inclusion.
ANZ Executive Sponsor of the Pride Network and ANZ Chief Finance Officer, Michelle Jablko said: “As advocates of diversity, inclusion and respect, ANZ is proud to launch the program for the third consecutive year, continuing to show our unwavering support for Australia’s LGBTIQ+ community.
“We hope the 2020 grants can help more groups and individuals thrive in different ways and we look forward to seeing these take place throughout the year”.
The ANZ & Sydney Mardi Gras Community Grants program provides financial funding for a wide range of purposes including Education and Training, Creation, Arts and Culture, and Community Development. To date, 30 grants have been given out since 2018 totalling $200,000.
Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO, Albert Kruger said: “We are delighted to officially open applications for the 2020 program, working in collaboration with ANZ to continue to provide funding to a diverse range of recipients under the LGBTIQ+ umbrella.
“The program highlights the incredible work of organisations and individuals across sports, arts, music, mental health, wellbeing and beyond and we look forward to supporting those who do so much to enrich the lives of our LBGTIQ+ community.”
Applications for ANZ & Sydney Mardi Gras Community Grants are open from 1 September until 4 October, with successful applicants announced the week commencing the 16 November 2020.
To apply and find out more information, visit www.anz.com/mardigrasgrants.