Saturday Magazine

21 Sep 2025

Saturday, 20th September, 2025: Vicki Ward, MP Eltham and Minister for Equality: Update Anti-Vilification Laws

Current Affairs, Interview, Joy, Joy 94.9, JOY 94.9, Joy Media, Joy Media, Media, News & Politics, Podcast, Saturday Magazine, Society & Culture, Uncategorized

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 17:34 — 20.1MB)

Saturday, 20th September, 2025: Vicki Ward, MP Eltham and Minister for Equality: Update Anti-Vilification Laws

Macca and Nevena talk to Vicki Ward, MP Eltham and Minister for Equality: Update Anti-Vilification Laws

The Allan Labor Government is backing a new helpline to support LGBTIQA+ Victorians targeted by homophobic violence.

In August, Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Equality Vicki Ward announced the new service will be delivered by Switchboard Victoria through its Rainbow Door helpline, providing free and confidential support from trained LGBTIQA+ professionals.

The service will give people with clear advice on their rights, how to report incidents to police, and connect them with medical, legal and counselling services – all in a safe environment.

It follows a series of recent assaults where perpetrators used dating apps to target the LGBTIQA+ communities, particularly men.

The Labor Government’s Anti-Hate Taskforce will also hear directly from LGBTIQA+ Victorians about the violent attacks in its next meeting – because everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and represented as we work together to reject hate in all its forms.

All Rainbow Door staff are trained in trauma-informed practice, ensuring survivors are supported with compassion and dignity, perpetrators are held to account, and individuals are empowered with knowledge and choice.

Switchboard has worked with Thorne Harbour Health, Q+Law, Victoria Police and other community partners to build a strong support network. Referral options will also include the Victims Support Agency and sexual assault services.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 17:34 — 20.1MB)

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