Rainbow Local Government
LGBTIQA+ Priorities for the 2024 Victorian Local Council Elections
Winner of the 2020 GLOBE award for Outstanding Advocacy
Supporting and promoting the efforts of local governments to foster a culture that is inclusive, responsive and accessible to LGBTIQA+ Victorians.
Your local candidates
Enter your postcode to find out which of your local candidates have taken the Local Council Candidate Pledge or identify as LGBTIQA+. You can also check out the map.
Are you a candidate for the upcoming local council elections?
About the pledge (what we’re asking)
Establish or continue an LGBTIQA+ advisory committee
We urge councils to engage with and support our LGBTIQA+ community by establishing or continuing an LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee. These committees plays a crucial role in bringing LGBTIQA+ issues to the council’s attention, ensuring that the community’s needs are heard and addressed.
We ask that candidates actively campaign for, and support, the formation or ongoing work of an LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee, helping to create a council that truly represents and advocates for all its residents.
Develop or renew an LGBTIQA+ action plan
Councils can take meaningful steps towards inclusivity by developing and implementing an LGBTIQA+ Action Plan. This plan would build on the work of LGBTIQA+ advisory committees, ensuring that community addresses equity and access for all. By championing this initiative, councils can better respond to LGBTIQA+ issues and create a more inclusive environment for everyone.
We ask that candidates actively campaign for, and support, the adoption of an LGBTIQA+ Action Plan for council, to help make their local community a place where diversity is celebrated, and all voices are heard.
Fly the rainbow flag
Councils can demonstrate commitment to inclusivity by flying the rainbow flag from council buildings on LGBTIQA+ awareness days. These days, including the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (17 May), Wear It Purple Day, and Trans Day of Remembrance (20 Nov) are crucial opportunities to celebrate the LGBTIQA+ community and emphasise the importance of safe spaces for all.
We ask that candidates actively campaign for, and support, the display of the rainbow flag on these important days, showing dedication to equality and visibility year-round.
Install a rainbow crossing (or maintain existing one)
This vibrant symbol of Pride is more than just a crossing—it’s a visible commitment to diversity, acceptance, and equality for all. Rainbow crossings help create a space where everyone feels seen and valued and make local communities a place where love and inclusion are always in the spotlight.
We ask that candidates actively campaign for, and support, installing a rainbow crossing in the community (or maintain one if already installed!).
Participate in Midsumma and local pride events
Councils can visibly show support for the LGBTIQA+ community by actively participating in Midsumma and local Pride events. Midsumma, a celebration of LGBTIQA+ arts and culture, spans venues across Melbourne and regional Victoria, featuring the vibrant Carnival and Pride March. Councils can demonstrate their commitment to inclusion by holding a stall at the Carnival or marching in the Pride March.
We ask that candidates actively campaign for, and support, participation in these events, showcasing our community’s dedication to equality, diversity, and pride.
Are you a candidate for the upcoming local council elections?
Who we are
Rainbow Local Government is a campaign coordinated by the Victorian Pride Lobby. The Lobby is a community-based advocacy group that works towards equality, social justice and advancing human rights for LGBTIQA+ Victorians. We work constructively, cooperatively and respectfully with other organisations that support our organisation’s mission and vision.
Are you a first-time LGBTIQA+ candidate?
Mentoring opportunities with experienced candidates are available.
Email rainbowlocalgov@gmail.com for more info.
