Culturally diverse LGBTQIA+ support services and groups

Wondering what support is available for LGBTQIA+ young people from diverse backgrounds? There are a growing number of LGBTQIA+ community groups and events that celebrate cultural diversity, as well as support services nationwide and in every state run by and for queer youth from cultural, ethnic and religious minorities.

This can help if:

• you come from a culturally diverse background

• you’re questioning your sexuality or gender

• you identify as LGBTQIA+.

National support services

Australian LGBTQI Multicultural Council (AGMC) is the peak body for non-heterosexual individuals of colour. The AGMC website raises awareness about upcoming LGBTQI events from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

A-Men is an online social group for gay Asian men living in Australia. Their online magazine explores art, sexuality and cultural identity.

Queer Muslims in Australia is a Yahoo! group that provides a safe online space for LGBTQI Muslims to connect and express and/or come to terms with their faith and sexuality.

New South Wales

Dayenu offers support, resources and social activities for Jewish LGBT+ people, their friends and family. Check out their Facebook page for more info.

Trikone Australasia connects LGBTQI South Asians living in Sydney by holding rad events such as cultural nights, film festivals and Bollywood dance parties.

Rainbow Bridge Social Club is a social club for young people aged 16–26 with an intellectual disability who identify as being LGBTQIA+ or are still exploring their sexual orientation.

Victoria

Greek and Gay Support Network provides support services and hosts fun events for Hellenic LGBT individuals and their friends.

Yellow Kitties hosts fun events such as badminton, rock-climbing, karaoke, anime and movie marathons for Asian LBTQI women. Email: enquiries@yellowkitties.org

Helem exists to meet the needs of LGBTQI people from Arab communities in Melbourne. Check out their Facebook page for more info.

Aleph is a group that supports non-heterosexuals of Jewish heritage in Melbourne. Phone: 0417 595 541

Queensland

Ethnic+ is a not-for-profit networking association for the CALD Rainbow community and its allies. They run in-person events in Brisbane and surrounds and online events for all of Australia.

Brisbane Queer Film Festival is an annual event that showcases queer world cinema and celebrates diversity in the international LGBTQIA+ community.

South Australia

Feast Festival is South Australia’s largest LGBTQI cultural festival and attracts both performers and visitors from across the globe. Check out their Facebook page for more info.

Rainbow Family Tree is a digital storytelling community comprised of queer individuals who creatively explore their multiple identities.

Western Australia

PRIDEFEST annually showcases an array of performance and arts events to highlight the inclusion and diversity within Perth’s queer community.

Youthline WA is a phone service, run by the Samaritans, which offers non-judgemental, culturally sensitive support for youth going through a tough time. Phone: 1800 198 313.

Northern Territory

Sisters and Brothers NT is an advocacy and support group for people of diverse gender, sex and sexuality in the Northern Territory.

Tasmania

QueerTas is a Yahoo! group that provides a platform for LGBTQI Tasmanians to promote upcoming events and support services in the state.

The Link Youth Health Service offers a safe, friendly environment to chat about health issues. Their Open Access Area allows youth to drop by and access a washing machine, dryer and shower, and pick up hygiene items (e.g. shampoo, tampons) or condoms and lube.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

SpringOUT is an annual cultural festival that celebrates the diversity within LGBTQI communities.