On behalf of the Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) Partners, Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) wish to congratulate Joe Ball on his appointment as the new Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities.
Joe Ball has an extensive history of advocating for the rights of LGBTIQA+ young people, making him uniquely placed to uplift their voices in his role. During Joe’s time as CEO of Switchboard Victoria, he oversaw the creation of the Rainbow Door helpline for family violence and mental health support, and the creation of CHARLEE, an LGBTIQA+ Suicide Prevention Hub.
At a time of rising discrimination against transgender, gender diverse and non-binary young Victorians, it is incredibly important to have positive representation of LGBTIQA+ communities and to showcase their strengths. Joe is a proud transgender man and tireless advocate for the lived experience of LGBTIQA+ communities informing policies and programs in Victoria.
Joe will be starting in the role on 23rd September 2024. The HEY Partners look forward to working with Joe on elevating the voices and celebrating the identities of LGBTIQA+ young people throughout Victoria.
Quote from YACVic CEO Mary Nega:
I warmly congratulate and welcome Joe as Victoria’s new Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities. Having such a wonderful advocate will greatly assist not just our LGBTIQA+ community but our allies, communities, and families with LGBTIQA+ members, across the whole of Victoria who will benefit from Joe’s experience and dedication.