Photo: Premier of Victoria

Minister for Youth Affairs Jenny Mikakos today announced Girl Guides Victoria will receive $1 million over the next four years to establish new groups with a focus on increasing diversity within their ranks.

The funding will establish eight new school-based programs for girls experiencing disadvantage, and eight new programs for girls from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Girl Guides Victoria will also provide targeted support and expert advice to 16 rural and regional guide groups, helping them recruit and support over 80 girls.

Up to 120 volunteers will get training, with funding to provide further assistance for those who want to become Guide leaders in the future.

Current guide leaders will also benefit from leadership development workshops, while there will be new training programs to implement a range of camping and outdoor education experiences.

Currently, Girl Guides Victoria runs four programs based in areas identified as experiencing disadvantage, with more than 60 young girls having participated in those programs.

Girl Guides Victoria supports women and girls to build their self-resilience and confidence, and to develop their leadership skills through outdoor and other activities.