SWAG - BARWON
SWAG (South West Art Groups) is dedicated to creating safer spaces for LGBTQIA+ young people in the Barwon region, improving their health, safety, and well-being.
OUR PROGRAMS
Art Groups
Weekly art sessions for LGBTQIA+ 14 - 24 to connect, create, share stories, and build confidence in a safe, affirming space.
Events
Raw and unapologetic. SWAG events showcase LGBTQIA+ youth art, stories, and survival, reclaiming space in regional communities.
Outreach
We strive to build networks with those who show up, growing systems of care where LGBTQIA+ youth are seen, heard, and believed.
Advocacy
Guided by what young people know and live, we help them self-advocate for their right to live their best lives, free from discrimination.
Tianna 21
It is a space that was actually safe, actually fun. Something to look forward to once a week.
Anon 19
I literally wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for art group. I found my people"
Newt 16
"I've changed a lot while I've been with art. It's improved my life a lot. And I'm so grateful"
Anon 15
"It’s a place where I can go and not feel like shit"
The people that walk with us.
We are on the unceded lands of the Gadubanud, Gulidjan, Wadawurrung (Wathaurong) and Kirrae Wurrong (Girai Wurrung) peoples, of the wider Barwon / Otways region. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people whose creativity and strength inspire our work.
Always was, always will be Aboriginal land [-o-]