LGBTI

Nurses, midwives and students who identify as LGBTI may encounter stressors relating to their sexuality in the workplace. Being informed about the law and issues that affect LGBTI people can help to ensure that everyone feels safe and happy at work.

If you would like to chat to someone you can call our confidential support line 24/7 on 1800 667 877.
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LGBTI in the workplace
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There are no statistics relating to the number of nurses, midwives and students who identify as LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and/or intersex) in Australia. People who identify as LGBTI may experience homophobia, transphobia or biphobia from societal discourses and/or institutional beliefs and practices. The consequence of this may result in internalising feelings of shame, fear and guilt.

Policies and procedures in each workplace protect staff from discrimination. They include the values of the organisation, prevention of bullying and harassment and local Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures. If you experience discrimination in your workplace as a result of your sexual orientation speak to your manager, or your human resource department.

Caring for the LGBT population

As the health care needs of the LGBTI population become increasingly important, healthcare professionals require appropriate academic and clinical training in preparation for the increased demand for culturally competent care. This is relevant to nurses and midwives, as they are the core direct caregivers in many health care settings.

Understanding the law and LGBTI
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Legislation and policy

Following is a summary of international and federal legislation that relates to the protection and rights of the LGBTI community.

Australian states and territories also have various legislation and policies that support LBGTI health. Refer to your state or territory government website for legislation and policies that support LGBTI health.

Federal legislation

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Act 1986

This Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against people because of their race, colour, sex, religion, political opinion (in employment only), national extraction or social origin, age, medical record, irrelevant criminal record (in employment only), impairment, marital status, mental, intellectual or psychiatric disability, nationality, physical disability, sexual preference (in employment only) and trade union activity (in employment only).

Commonwealth laws

The following Commonwealth laws have allowed for equal treatment for the LGBTI community:

  • Same-Sex Relationships (Equal Treatment in Commonwealth Laws - Superannuation) Act 2008
  • Same-Sex Relationships (Equal Treatment in Commonwealth Laws - General Law Reform) Act 2008
  • Fair Work Act 2009.
National LGBTI Health Alliance
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The National LGBTI Health Alliance is the national peak health organisation in Australia for organisations and individuals. They provide health-related programs, services and research focused on LGBTI people and other sexuality, gender, and bodily diverse people and communities.

They recognise that people’s genders, bodies, relationships, and sexualities affect their health and well-being in every domain of their life. For more information visit the National LGBTI Health Alliance knowledge hub.

What can I do next?
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Why not use our service finder to find out about some of the services available to the LGBTI community.

Our service provides free and confidential support 24/7, to nurses, midwives and students Australia wide. If you would like to speak to someone call 1800 667 877, or you can request support via email.

If you would like to know a bit more about the service before getting in contact — take a look through accessing support.

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