MEDIA STATEMENT

Today on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), we acknowledge and celebrate the ongoing strength of LGBTIQA+ young people.

IDAHOBIT Day marks the day 31 years ago when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems.

Young people should be able to live safely without fear of abuse, violence or discrimination based on their sexuality or gender identity.

But LGBTIQA+ young people’s safety and rights continue to be under threat by new forms of discrimination, such as the proposed Religious Discrimination Bill, and the exclusion of trans and gender diverse young people from sport and school.

In the face of this, LGBTIQA+ young people and communities continue to create safe spaces for support and pride, and fight for resistance.

Youth services are a part of this, championing LGBTIQA+ young people in the wider community, running programs and providing opportunities for LGBTIQA+ young people to have a sense of belonging, be connected and advocate for their rights.

Youth services also continue to fight for better inclusion of LGBTIQA+ young people across schools, local councils, health and other services.

There have been some important wins in Victoria for LGBTIQA+ young people in the past year. This includes the new Victorian Government LGBTIQA+ Strategy, ban of LGBTIQA+ conversion therapy, additional funding for LGBTIQA+ services into parts of regional Victoria, and funding to develop a new organisation for disabled LGBTIQA+ people.

YACVic remains committed to advancing and improving the lives and rights of LGBTIQA+ young people.

LGBTIQA+ young people today are more active, visible and valued in their communities, and are energetically taking the torch passed from LGBTIQA+ advocates and activists who came before them. And they are continuing to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive community where LGBTIQA+ young people are valued, supported and celebrated.

If you or someone you know is feeling unsafe and/or needs immediate support, you can contact one of these services:

  • Rainbow Door: a free specialist LGBTIQA+ helpline providing support and referrals, 10am – 5pm every day.
  • QLife: free LGBTIQA+ peer support and referral, 3pm – midnight every day

Media Contact:  Katia Pellicciotta (she/her), YACVic Media and Communications Coordinator on 9267 3744 or KPellicciotta@YACVic.org.au

About Youth Affairs Council Victoria

Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) is the peak body and leading advocate for young people aged 12–25 and youth workers in Victoria. Our vision is that young people are active, visible and valued in their communities.