Everyone loves a gala event. But it’s even better when the event helps people at the same time!
The LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation is gearing up for its fourth annual Light up the Night Gala.
Described as “Australia’s premier and purposeful LGBTQ+ fundraising event”, the gala will be an elegant – and very entertaining – evening on Saturday, 24 May at Brisbane City Hall.
Hosted under the spectacular rainbow dome in City Hall’s beautiful main auditorium, it’s a chance for allies, business leaders, political representatives, community groups and philanthropists to take a stand and support an important cause.
The Light Up the Night Gala is equal parts style and substance – an eagerly anticipated and perpetually sold-out black-tie event that unites people in a shared cause.
Guests will enjoy networking opportunities, a sumptuous three-course dinner, premium beverages, guest speakers, powerful stories, special headline entertainers, live music, a live auction and raffles.
The 2025 Light Up the Night gala will be in May. Photo: supplied.The LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation
The LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation bills itself as “a strong voice for LGBTQ+ domestic violence victims and survivors”.
It works to end domestic, family and intimate partner violence and abuse within LGBTQ+ communities.
Founded in 2020, it is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and is an official deductable gift recipient (DGR), meaning donations and financial support to the group are tax deductible.
Propelled by passionate volunteers and governed by a Board of Directors, the group is “committed to shining a light on an epidemic that’s plagued LGBTQ+ communities for far too long”.
“We strive to overcome a fundamental lack of awareness, representation and understanding about the prevalence of abuse in LGBTQ+ communities,” a spokesperson said.
“We work tirelessly to provide education, information and resources to support services, workplaces, bystanders and survivors,” they said.
“By cultivating a culture of awareness, we can create real and meaningful change.
“Our mission is to ensure everyone – no matter their sexuality or gender identity – feels seen and believed, and receives safe and inclusive support.
“We know that visibility is the key.”
Light Up the Night Gala QR booking code.How to support the foundation
The first and easiest way to support the foundation is to buy a ticket to the gala. Not only will you be supporting the foundation, you’ll also have a great time!
But there are myriad other ways to help.
Individuals and businesses can donate or invest in a platinum, gold, silver or bronze sponsorship packages; discuss a tailored sponsorship package with the foundation; donate prizes to the gala’s charity raffle; host or donate a corporate table; and donate in-kind goods or services.
Ben Bjarnesen BM CF, founder and managing director of the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation, said Light Up the Night and its supporters could change lives for the better.
“Your generous support as a Light Up the Night Gala partner will help end the invisibility felt by victims and survivors,” he said.
“You have the power to change people’s lives – to ensure that people feel seen, believed, supported and hopeful – regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.”
The 2025 Light Up the Night Gala will be held at 6pm Saturday 24 May at Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide Street, Brisbane. Visit www.dvafoundation.org for information and tickets, as well as further details on the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation.
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