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LGBTIQ+

Our region is home to many people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and/or queer (LGBTIQ+).

While the acronym LGBTIQ+ encompasses diverse communities and individuals, LGBTIQ+ people share generally poorer health and wellbeing outcomes than the heterosexual and cisgendered community.

This is largely because of the stigma and discrimination that LGBTIQ+ people can experience in their everyday lives, including from the health system.

Without support, young people who are LGBTIQ+ are 5 times more likely to attempt suicide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5NU8t7CAxw

LGBTIQ+ communities have specific health needs and some are at increased risk of certain conditions including:

  • poor mental health including anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide
  • alcohol and other drugs misuse or dependence
  • some cancers
  • some STIs, including HIV.

Our work

We engage in activities to increase the cultural responsiveness and inclusiveness of health services and health professionals working with LGBTIQ+ people, and to address inequalities in health systems and outcomes. These activities include: