On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), we celebrate the strength of LGBTIQA+ young people who continue to face stigma, discrimination and vilification in Australia and around the world. 

IDAHOBIT (17 May) marks the day in 1990 that the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. IDAHOBIT reminds us of the progress society has made in addressing LGBTIQA+ discrimination, but also of the work that remains to recognise the rights of all LGBTIQA+ people to live with dignity, safety and pride in their identities.

This year, Australia will take a historic step towards counting members of our LGBTIQA+ community in the 2026 Census, which for the first time will include questions on sexual orientation and gender.

Victoria’s strengthened protections against hate and vilification are in place, and the state has also passed a new law to protect intersex children from unnecessary surgeries – a huge win for intersex people and community organisations that have long advocated for the change.

While we celebrate these achievements, we are concerned by the sharp rise in anti-LGBTIQA+ hate and attacks targeting the rights of trans and gender-diverse young people. The global rise in hate underscores the need for immediate and meaningful investment in community-led programs that address stigma, misinformation, and promote access to safe, inclusive youth services and events.

Spaces for safety and belonging

As coordinators of the Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) program and our 16 HEY Partner organisations, we are proud to support LGBTIQA+ young Victorians and the vital youth services who support and champion LGBTIQA+ young people. Youth services provide safe places for connection, working with and for LGBTIQA+ young people to advocate for their rights.

Through our annual HEY Grants, we provide funding for safe, affirming initiatives for LGBTIQA+ young people to proudly express their identity and strengthen their sense of belonging.

This year, our HEY Partner, Uniting Vic. Tas. Shepparton, celebrates 30 years of The Diversity Project. Here’s what young people had to say about Uniting’s support programs:

"It's a safe, calm environment where you don't have to worry about judgement… great for forgetting about the stress of everyday life."

"The supports and community that exist because of Uniting are the reason I feel and know there are places I can go to be me and feel safe." 

YACVic remains committed to advancing and improving the lives and rights of LGBTIQA+ young people. LGBTIQA+ young people today are energetically taking the torch passed from LGBTIQA+ activists who came before them. They continue to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive community.

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 referrals, 3pm – 9pm every day 

To learn more about Victoria’s strengthened anti-vilification protections, visit the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission's website.

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.