We are thrilled that the result of the marriage equality survey is a resounding yes. We know that young people overwhelmingly support marriage equality and that was confirmed by the Victorian results of 78% of young people aged between 18 - 24 voting in favour of same sex marriage.

Nevertheless, heightened political conversations can be rather unsettling and distressing times. Despite the results of the survey being clear, the debate will continue as legislation is created. 

We encourage all people to take care and look out for one another - right now is a great time to refresh and take some time out for self care.

  • If you need to speak to someone, access support via these amazing specialist organisations. 
  • It's a great opportunity to take a break from social media and news if you feel overwhelmed or fatigued by it.
  • Reach out to friends and family if it helps.
  • Try and eat, sleep and play as best you can. Make time for healthy choices, hobbies and activities you love, and people you love!

If you or anyone you know could use some self-care advice, ACON has produced great factsheets, and ReachOut has some sound insights. Regardless of how you identify, these resources offer many useful tips for watching out for yourself and those around you.

Know somebody with accessibility concerns? 

Please contact Youth Disability Advocacy Service (YDAS) on ydas@yacvic.org.au or (03) 9267 3709.

Getting help

If you need to speak with someone, please reach out to these amazing specialist organisations. They are here to support you.

Victoria

Kids helpline

Kids helpline is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. We listen and care. Talking helps.1800 55 1800. www.kidshelpline.com.au

Headspace

National youth mental health foundation dedicated to improving the wellbeing of young Australians. 1800 650 890. www.headspace.org.au

Victoria Switchboard

Free, confidential, and anonymous telephone counselling and information for sexual and gender diverse Victorians.1800 184 527. www.switchboard.org.au

Ygender

Ygender is a peer-led support organisation for trans and gender diverse young people. It provides events, advocacy, and support. www.ygender.org.au

Equinox

The Equinox Gender Diverse Health Service offers a safe, inclusive space for trans and gender diverse people to access quality general practitioner services.(03) 9416 2889. www.equinox.org.au

Proud 2 Play

Proud 2 Play helps to connect LGBTIQ+ youth with sport who wish to participate at their school but feel uncomfortable or threatened being involved in such an environment. www.proud2play.org.au

Transgender Victoria

Transgender Victoria works with and for the trans and gender diverse community in Victoria to provide advice and education, and to raise awareness around trans issues in the broader community.(03) 9020 4642. www.transgendervictoria.com

National

Minus18

Minus18 is Australia’s largest youth led organisation for LGBTI youth, and provide mental health support, online resources, youth mentoring, and social events. www.minus18.org.au

beyondblue

beyondblue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live.(03) 9416 2889. www.beyondblue.org.au

ReachOut

Online mental health organisation for young people and their parents. Practical support, tools and tips to help young people get through anything, from everyday issues to tough times. www.reachout.com.au

QLife

Australia’s first nationally-oriented counselling and referral service for people of diverse sex, genders and sexualities. QLife provides nation-wide, early intervention, peer supported telephone and web based services to support LGBTIQ+ people of all ages. Call 1800 184 527 between 3pm – midnight every day nationally (free call). www.qlife.org.au