Young people in Whitehorse are getting a helping hand to build their confidence and explore creative careers thanks to funding from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Youth Affairs Jenny Mikakos today announced 77 local government and community organisations from across Victoria will receive funding as part of the $7.2 million FReeZA program, to be delivered over three years.

Whitehorse Council was one of the selected organisations, and will soon receive a grant of $72,000 for ‘Flying Pig Events, this will provide young people the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their creative ability in a safe and secure environment to promote and celebrate artistic and cultural pursuits. ‘Flying Pig Events’ are planned and facilitated by young people and highlight their creative abilities for the enjoyment of the Whitehorse community. ‘Flying Pig Events’ are inclusive of all, inspiring young people to get involved in their local community as either a volunteer, performer or as an attendee at an FReeZA event.

More than 150,000 young people from across Victoria attend more than 400 FReeZA events every year.

FReeZA is an innovative youth development program providing opportunities for young Victorians aged 12 to 25 to enjoy musical, cultural, recreational and artistic events that are drug, alcohol and smoke-free.

FReeZA also funds The Push – an independent youth music and event management organisation, which helps young people organise their own live events. Young people are encouraged to participate and perform in FReeZA events, but also to get involved behind the scenes to learn skills that may lead to employment in the arts and music industry.

Organising FReeZA activities has given hundreds of young Victorians the opportunity to develop their skills development and workplace experience, so they can go on to gain further employment or education qualifications in similar fields.

The FReeZA program is just one way that the Andrews Labor Government’s Youth Policy: Building Stronger Youth Engagement in Victoria is being actioned, providing an opportunity for young people to influence policy, services and programs that affect them.

To find out more about the FReeZA program, visit youthcentral.vic.gov.au/freeza.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Affairs Jenny Mikakos

“FReeZA is a great way for young people to get hands-on experience in setting up events – whether it be live music shows, BMX expos or art and short film competitions – but also to celebrate their talent.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region, Shaun Leane

“Programs like FReeZA open up opportunities for young Victorians in different ways – by building skills, creating jobs and supporting young musicians and artists perform in their local communities.”

“Congratulations to Whitehorse Council for its successful application to this funding round of FReeZA –  I look forward to seeing the program come to life.”