Allyship

Allyship is when you stand up for, support and encourage marginalised people who aren’t given the same opportunities or platforms that you are. Allies can support people across many different identities and communities, including those of different sexualities, genders, and cultures. Being an active ally means consistently learning from others, reflecting on your own values, and acknowledging mistakes when you make them. Here are some resources on allyship to help you show up for people around you and create positive change.

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Understanding racism and how to spot it

This guide will help you understand what racism is and why it happens. Learn about different types of racism, and how you can put a stop to it.

Title card: How to be a good ally to the LGBTQIA+ community

What is an LGBTQIA+ ally, and how can I be a good one?

Maybe someone you know has just come out, or you've seen something on TV...here's your starter pack to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.

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How to be an ally to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Learn how to be a useful and respectful ally to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

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How to ease pressure off mob and share the cultural load

Phoebe shares her experiences of cultural load and suggests how allies can help to ease pressure off First Nations people.

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Outback Tom yarns with mob about being a good ally

Yorta Yorta man Tom Forrest aka Outback Tom yarns with First Nations folks about how allies can actively participate in reconciliation and be there for mob.

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5 ways you can call out your mates for sexist behaviour

If you're tired of your mates saying weird stuff about women, here are a few ways you can encourage them to do better.

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How to support someone with their gender affirmation

Gender affirmation is one aspect of living authentically for gender diverse people. Learn how to support someone with their gender affirmation.

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Understanding a different culture

You’re surrounded by different cultures and races everywhere you go. Here are some ways you can understand cultures that are different from your own.

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How to support people from different cultural backgrounds

We can all make a difference in stopping discrimination and racism in its tracks. Learn how you can support people from different backgrounds and those who experience racism.

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Why cultural appropriation isn't cool

You may have seen the term ‘cultural appropriation’ here and there, but what actually is it? Learn what it is and what the big deal is.

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How to say NO to discrimination and YES to inclusion

Discrimination happens everywhere, all the time. Here's how to recognise it, and little but powerful things you can do to help!

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What reconciliation means to Sancia

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Frequently asked questions about allyship

An ally is someone who actively supports and stands up for people from marginalised or disadvantaged groups, even if they don't belong to those groups themselves. Allyship is all about listening, learning, and using your voice to help create positive change.

Inclusivity is about creating environments where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected. Allyship is the active practice of supporting marginalised groups. Think of inclusivity as the goal, and allyship as one of the ways we help achieve it.

Social equity means ensuring everyone has access to the same opportunities and resources, regardless of their background or circumstances. As an ally, you can help promote social equity by speaking out against unfair treatment and supporting initiatives that create equal opportunities for everyone.

Performative allyship is when someone claims to support a cause but doesn't take meaningful action to create real change. True allyship is more than words – it’s about genuine commitment and actions that help make things better for marginalised groups.

A good place to start learning how to be a better LGBTQIA+ ally is educating yourself on LGBTQIA+ issues, listening to stories shared by the community, using correct pronouns, and calling out homophobic or transphobic comments when it’s safe to do so. Learning how to de-centre your comfort and hold space for others is also a great skill to work on to be a better ally. Learn how to be a better LGBTQIA+ ally.

Listening to First Nations voices, learning the true history of Australia, and supporting Blak-led businesses and movements are good ways to start being a better ally to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Allyship means showing up and doing the work to understand the impact of systemic issues and understanding when to educate others versus when it’s important to step back and centre First Nations voices. Read our guide on how to be an ally to First Nations people.