Rainbow Futures WA Limited (RFWA) has been awarded a $100,000 Lotterywest grant, and it couldn’t come at a more critical time as it refurbishes its new community hub and head office.
Rainbow Futures WA is the official peak body representing LGBTIQA+ communities in Western Australia.
The organisation works to strengthen inclusion, equity and wellbeing outcomes for LGBTIQA+ Western Australians through advocacy, partnerships and community engagement.
The $100,000 grant marks the organisation’s first funding from Lotterywest.
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‘A safe and inclusive space for LGBTIQA+ Western Australians’
Presenting the grant, Member for Scarborough Stuart Aubrey MLA highlighted the importance of representation and the value of lived experience in public life.
“This grant reflects that dedication,” Aubrey said. “I wish to express my gratitude for the ongoing advocacy of Rainbow Futures WA and acknowledge that prior to achieving peak body status, its hard work was undertaken entirely by volunteers.”
“The LGBTIQA+ community experiences disproportionate rates of mental ill-health, discrimination, violence and homelessness. Connection to community, inclusive environments and improved outcomes are critical components of addressing these disparities.”
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As an openly gay man, Mr Aubrey has spoken in the Western Australian Parliament about the importance of diverse voices being represented in parliamentary debate.
“Rainbow Futures provides a vital voice, meaningful representation,” Aubrey said, “And a safe and inclusive space for LGBTIQA+ Western Australians. Support that I would have greatly appreciated as a young gay man seeking community and connection. I welcome continued dialogue towards equal opportunity, safety and inclusion for LGBTIQA+ Western Australians.”
‘This is more than just a building’
Lotterywest supports projects and activities that align with its Community Investment Framework, which focuses on five priority areas:
- Inclusive, thriving communities
- Connected cultural experiences
- Protected, sustainable ecosystems
- Smart, innovative society
- Active, healthy people
“Thanks to the City of Vincent and Lotterywest, Rainbow Futures WA finally has a home, one that we can share with the LGBTIQA+ community. ” RFWA CEO, Dr Misty Farquhar OAM, said.
“But this is not simply an office – it is an act of resistance. At a time when targeted discrimination against our community is escalating, creating a safe space where people can be themselves is a profound and necessary act of care.”
“This is more than just a building. It is a statement that our community belongs here, that we are not going anywhere, and that WA is stronger when all of us can show up as our full selves.”
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