17 May 2022

Today is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

It’s a day for celebrating the achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer and other sexuality and gender diverse people (LGBTQIA+).

It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness of the ongoing discrimination experienced by LGBTIQA+ people and build LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

In Australia, LGBTQIA+ people experience disproportionally poorer health outcomes than their peers, which is directly related to experiences of stigma, prejudice, discrimination and abuse.

At Austin Health, we are committed to serving our communities, providing patient-centred care and building a positive and inclusive workplace culture where everyone’s contribution is valued.

Later this year, we will be launching our Gender Equality Action Plan and launching a new approach to planning, called Gender Impact Assessment, to make sure that our policies, programs and services are equitable. through gender impact assessments.Austin Health is committed to fulfilling a range of obligations to promote gender equality in workplaces, programs, and policies.

In the meantime, here are some quick and easy things you can do right now to support LGBTQIA+ loved ones, friends and colleagues. 

Ways to support greater inclusion

Don't tolerate disrespect - be vocal
It’s never OK to treat someone less favourably because of their background or personal characteristics. This includes making jokes or comments about a person’s gender, sexuality or appearance.

If you hear an inappropriate and disrespectful remark, call it out.

Use the right pronouns
Using the right pronouns for someone, as decided by them, is an easy way to show respect to LGBTIQ+ people.

A great place to find out more is the Victorian Government’s Inclusive language guide.

Listen and learn
Seek out, read, watch and listen to content produced by LGBTIQ+ people to help understand the varied lived experiences and perspectives of LGBTIQ+ communities

Raise awareness- celebrate these important days
Celebrate important days for LGBTQIA+ communities!

References and resources
There are a number of great resources online including:

• IDAHOBIT - What is it and why is it important
• www.IDAHOBIT - About 17 May
• How to have a great IDAHOBIT at work