LGBTQIA+

We are committed to creating a community that embraces inclusiveness and equality.

Terminology is important and can be complex and dynamic. We use the acronym LGBTQIA+ to refer to people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, queer and questioning, intersex, asexual, and any other terms (such as non-binary and pansexual).

We acknowledge the diversity within and across LGBTQIA+ communities. We understand people, organisations and groups use variations of the LGBTQIA+ acronym.

For more information, including how to be part of LGBTQIA+ Community Roundtables, contact our Mental Health and Wellbeing Project Officer on [email protected] or (03) 9278 4017.

Council initiatives

We are rolling out the following initiatives:

Gender Equality Action Plans (GEAP) outline the actions we'll take to ensure Boroondara continues to build a safe culture where employees from diverse backgrounds can bring their whole selves to work.
Gender Impact Assessments (GIA) consider how our actions meet the needs of people in our community and how we're enabling all people to have equal access to opportunities and resources.
Actively participate in the the Q-East Alliance, a network of community development and youth workers working to enhance the inclusion, health and wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ young people.
Boroondara Community Plan and Health and Wellbeing priorities, especially those addressing inequities experienced by different groups including LGBTQIA+ communities.
Biannual LGBTQIA+ Community Roundtables to hear how we can create a 'sustainable and inclusive community' as part of our 10-year vision.
Inclusive sports program, a partnership between Access Health and Community, Manningham Council, Women’s Health East and Leisure Networks that deliver the Inclusive Clubs project.
Making public toilets in Boroondara gender-neutral.

Events and activities

Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination (IDAHOBIT)

On 17 May each year, we celebrate the Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination (IDAHOBIT), previously known as International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia.

It began in 2005 to raise awareness of the discrimination that LGBTQIA+ people face, as well as celebrate the progress made in gaining greater equality for LGBTQIA+ people.

Find out more about our IDAHOBIT 2025 celebrations.

Rainbow Storytime

Have fun celebrating rainbow families with stories, songs and activities at our monthly sessions. We welcome LGBTQIA+ families of all ages and their allies.

Designed for 2 to 7 year olds, however ages 0 to 12 years are welcome.

We are committed to creating a community that embraces inclusiveness and equality.

Visit the event page for session times and more information.

Council resources

Libraries

Read the top LGBTQIA+ fiction and non-fiction titles from our collection, or explore our Booklist of LGBTQIA+ picture books.

Mental health

Find information about counselling and mental health services.

Community grants

We offer a range of grants to community groups and organisations in Boroondara to support activities and events.

Other resources

Pride Centre

Pride Centre is a purpose-built centre for Australia’s LGBTQIA+ communities. It is home to practical and supportive services and includes a Resource Directory.

Call (03) 7035 3592 for more information.

Rainbow Network

Rainbow Network is a directory to connect with LGBTQIA+ groups and services for young people all over Victoria.

Proud 2 Play

Proud 2 Play focuses on increasing LGBTQIA+ engagement in sport, exercise and active recreation.

Pride Foundation Australia – Small Grants

Individuals, community groups and/or organisations can apply to Pride Foundation Australia for up to $750 to support projects that benefit either LGBTQIA+ individuals or community or strengthen LGBTQIA+ organisational capacity.

Support services

headspace Hawthorn

headspace offers counselling and support to young people from 12 to 25 years, including providing a safe environment for the LGBTQIA+ community.

For more information call (03) 9006 6500.

Switchboard Victoria

Switchboard Victoria is a community-based not for profit organisation providing peer-driven support services for the LGBTQIA+ community, their allies, friends, support workers and families. For more information call 1800 184 527.

Switchboard's Out & About service facilitates friendship between LGBTQIA+ seniors and peer volunteer visitors. Their staff match participants and volunteers based on shared interests and hobbies, and support both people to stay engaged and connected over time.

Access Health and Community

Access Health offers a range of medical and allied health services. For more information, call (03) 9810 3000.

Minus-18

Minus-18 tackle social isolation by creating fun-filled spaces where LGBTQIA+ young people belong and are celebrated.