The LGBTIQA+ Minister's Advisory Council provides the Minister for Human Services and the State Government with strategic advice about issues affecting LGBTIQA+ people. The Council helps the Department of Human Services in its role in leading LGBTIQA+ inclusion in South Australia.
Council members
- Jody Anderson
- Megan Barnes
- Stacey Bates
- Kansas Bird
- Khadija Gbla
- Ricky Hatwell
- Kye Lawler
- Terry Masson
- Holly Skene
- Lucy Solonsch
- Varo Lee - Chair
- Desmond Ford
LGBTIQA+ Minister's Advisory Council - Meeting outcome statements
Update as at 17 September 2026
On 17 September 2026, the Disability, LGBTIQA+ and Youth Minister’s Advisory Councils came together to help inform the development of the South Australian Suicide Prevention Plan 2027-2032. This meeting marked the first time that all three Councils have participated in a joint consultation with one another since they were established in 2022.
Collectively, Council members shared insights from their own lived experiences and on behalf of the communities they belong to, with the importance of accessible and inclusive services resonating as a key theme for members of all three Councils.
The session was led by an external facilitator, with staff from Preventive Health SA and two members of SA’s Suicide Prevention Council: Dr Kylie Heneker (the Commissioner for Children and Young People), and Varo (the CEO of the SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance and Chair of the LGBTIQA+ MAC) also attending to hear from the Council members.
The joint Council meeting formed part of a broader consultation process being undertaken by Preventive Health SA. The outcome of this consultation will inform the development of the new Suicide Prevention Plan, which will be released in 2027.
The Councils will return to their regular meeting format for their next meetings in November 2026.
Update as at 17 September 2026
On 17 September 2026, the Disability, LGBTIQA+ and Youth Minister’s Advisory Councils came together to help inform the development of the South Australian Suicide Prevention Plan 2027-2032. This meeting marked the first time that all three Councils have participated in a joint consultation with one another since they were established in 2022.
Collectively, Council members shared insights from their own lived experiences and on behalf of the communities they belong to, with the importance of accessible and inclusive services resonating as a key theme for members of all three Councils.
The session was led by an external facilitator, with staff from Preventive Health SA and two members of SA’s Suicide Prevention Council: Dr Kylie Heneker (the Commissioner for Children and Young People), and Varo (the CEO of the SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance and Chair of the LGBTIQA+ MAC) also attending to hear from the Council members.
The joint Council meeting formed part of a broader consultation process being undertaken by Preventive Health SA. The outcome of this consultation will inform the development of the new Suicide Prevention Plan, which will be released in 2027.
The Councils will return to their regular meeting format for their next meetings in November 2026.
Update as at 14 July 2026
The second LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2026 was held on 14 July.
The Council discussed the importance of LGBTIQA+ students feeling safe and included at school, recognising the role of the Department for Education and school leaders in achieving this in public schools. Schools were commended for celebrating key LGBTIQA+ days such as IDAHOBIT, with members noting that this visible support from schools helps create a culture of inclusion where LGBTIQA+ students, parents and staff feel welcome.
The Hon Katrine Hildyard MP met with the Council for the first time as the Minister for Human Services, hearing from members about key issues they think are important, such as embedding LGBTIQA+ inclusion into government departments, supporting survivors of conversion practices, addressing discrimination and vilification in society, and supporting LGBTIQA+ people who have experienced domestic, family and sexual violence.
The Council looks forward to working with Minister Hildyard to progress LGBTIQA+ inclusion in South Australia and spent time considering potential goals to prioritise for the remainder of their term.
The Council will next meet in late 2026.
Update as at 14 July 2026
The second LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2026 was held on 14 July.
The Council discussed the importance of LGBTIQA+ students feeling safe and included at school, recognising the role of the Department for Education and school leaders in achieving this in public schools. Schools were commended for celebrating key LGBTIQA+ days such as IDAHOBIT, with members noting that this visible support from schools helps create a culture of inclusion where LGBTIQA+ students, parents and staff feel welcome.
The Hon Katrine Hildyard MP met with the Council for the first time as the Minister for Human Services, hearing from members about key issues they think are important, such as embedding LGBTIQA+ inclusion into government departments, supporting survivors of conversion practices, addressing discrimination and vilification in society, and supporting LGBTIQA+ people who have experienced domestic, family and sexual violence.
The Council looks forward to working with Minister Hildyard to progress LGBTIQA+ inclusion in South Australia and spent time considering potential goals to prioritise for the remainder of their term.
The Council will next meet in late 2026.
Update as at 10 February 2026
The first LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2026 was held on 10 February.
A discussion about law reform and public safety was held, with members sharing insights about the processes that exist for LGBTIQA+ people to report experiences of discrimination. Members noted that many LGBTIQA+ people are unaware of their rights or how to seek support when they experience discrimination in workplaces, education settings or when accessing health and community services. Ideas for improving current systems and processes were explored, with DHS to engage with and invite relevant government departments to meet with the Council in a future meeting.
Members spoke with the Minister for Human Services about LGBTIQA+ experiences of homelessness and housing, specifically highlighting the challenges trans and gender diverse people face. Members commended that LGBTIQA+ people are recognised as a priority population group in various government strategies and sought clarity on how this is translating into actions that support LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
A representative from DHS’ Social Policy, Evaluation and Reform Directorate met with the Council to seek their advice about Action 1.1.3 in the Volunteering Strategy for South Australia Action Plan 2025-2027 that aims to create safe and inclusive environments for trans and gender diverse volunteers. Members shared their lived experience as volunteers, including how organisations have made their volunteering experiences welcoming or unwelcoming.
The Council will next meet in mid-2026.
Update as at 10 February 2026
The first LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2026 was held on 10 February.
A discussion about law reform and public safety was held, with members sharing insights about the processes that exist for LGBTIQA+ people to report experiences of discrimination. Members noted that many LGBTIQA+ people are unaware of their rights or how to seek support when they experience discrimination in workplaces, education settings or when accessing health and community services. Ideas for improving current systems and processes were explored, with DHS to engage with and invite relevant government departments to meet with the Council in a future meeting.
Members spoke with the Minister for Human Services about LGBTIQA+ experiences of homelessness and housing, specifically highlighting the challenges trans and gender diverse people face. Members commended that LGBTIQA+ people are recognised as a priority population group in various government strategies and sought clarity on how this is translating into actions that support LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
A representative from DHS’ Social Policy, Evaluation and Reform Directorate met with the Council to seek their advice about Action 1.1.3 in the Volunteering Strategy for South Australia Action Plan 2025-2027 that aims to create safe and inclusive environments for trans and gender diverse volunteers. Members shared their lived experience as volunteers, including how organisations have made their volunteering experiences welcoming or unwelcoming.
The Council will next meet in mid-2026.
Update as at 18 November 2025
The third LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2025 was held on 18 November.
A representative from DHS’ Homelessness Systems and Partnerships Directorate met with the Council to advise of a review of the homelessness sector. Members advised of barriers LGBTIQA+ people face when trying to access homelessness services and provided recommendations for how the sector can better support LGBTIQA+ people.
Two members provided feedback to the Council of a recent meeting they attended with the Department for Child Protection (DCP). The Council wishes to engage further with DCP in 2026 to increase DCP’s awareness of how best to support LGBTIQA+ children and young people in out of home care.
Following on from the last meeting in September 2025, time was allocated for a focused discussion about vilification experienced by transgender people, with members sharing input about how the State Government can respond to this ongoing concern, including through law reform, encouraging leaders to speak out against vilification, and taking actions to address the broader issue of misinformation and disinformation both as it relates to transgender people and to other population groups.
The Council next meets on 13 February 2026.
Update as at 18 November 2025
The third LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2025 was held on 18 November.
A representative from DHS’ Homelessness Systems and Partnerships Directorate met with the Council to advise of a review of the homelessness sector. Members advised of barriers LGBTIQA+ people face when trying to access homelessness services and provided recommendations for how the sector can better support LGBTIQA+ people.
Two members provided feedback to the Council of a recent meeting they attended with the Department for Child Protection (DCP). The Council wishes to engage further with DCP in 2026 to increase DCP’s awareness of how best to support LGBTIQA+ children and young people in out of home care.
Following on from the last meeting in September 2025, time was allocated for a focused discussion about vilification experienced by transgender people, with members sharing input about how the State Government can respond to this ongoing concern, including through law reform, encouraging leaders to speak out against vilification, and taking actions to address the broader issue of misinformation and disinformation both as it relates to transgender people and to other population groups.
The Council next meets on 13 February 2026.
Update as at 9 September 2025
The second LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2025 was held on 9 September 2025.
The Hon. Katrine Hildyard, Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, and the Minister for Child Protection, met with the Council to discuss the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV) Royal Commission’s recently released ‘With Courage’ report. Members praised the report’s recognition of LGBTIQA+ people’s experiences of DFSV and advised of the need to continue to consider LGBTIQA+ communities as the State Government plans how to implement the report’s recommendations.
During their discussion with the Minister for Human Services, members raised concerns about anti-LGBTIQA+ vilification, especially transphobia. The impact of these attitudes on LGBTIQA+ young people was highlighted as a particular concern with plans for further discussion in future meetings.
Members also identified areas for further discussion including possibilities for Equal Opportunity, and Human Rights Act reform and LGBTIQA+ sector resourcing.
The Council next meets on 18 November 2025.
Update as at 9 September 2025
The second LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meeting for 2025 was held on 9 September 2025.
The Hon. Katrine Hildyard, Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, and the Minister for Child Protection, met with the Council to discuss the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV) Royal Commission’s recently released ‘With Courage’ report. Members praised the report’s recognition of LGBTIQA+ people’s experiences of DFSV and advised of the need to continue to consider LGBTIQA+ communities as the State Government plans how to implement the report’s recommendations.
During their discussion with the Minister for Human Services, members raised concerns about anti-LGBTIQA+ vilification, especially transphobia. The impact of these attitudes on LGBTIQA+ young people was highlighted as a particular concern with plans for further discussion in future meetings.
Members also identified areas for further discussion including possibilities for Equal Opportunity, and Human Rights Act reform and LGBTIQA+ sector resourcing.
The Council next meets on 18 November 2025.
Update as at 24 June 2025
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their first meeting of the new Term on 24 June 2025. The Council met with representatives of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet to discuss the development of the State’s first Social Statement. The Council also met with representatives of Country Health SA to discuss the Joint Regional Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan 2026-2029. Members also discussed an earlier out-of-session consultation held with the Department for Education regarding non-attendance at school and inclusive Education.
The attendance by Department for Premier and Cabinet staff provided an important opportunity for the Council to provide LGBTIQA+ perspectives at an early stage in the development of the Social Statement. Members emphasised the need for strong communities and meaningful partnerships and called for genuine action to achieve these. Members emphasised that safety should be understood beyond law and order and stressed the need to acknowledge historical injustices and ensure diverse grassroots voices are included in roundtable discussions. Members shared their experience with the long-standing silence of Aboriginal and LGBTIQA+ voices, and called for genuine recognition, accountability, and inclusive engagement from the government to build a more representative future.
Members discussed questions with the Minister for Human Services, the Hon Nat Cook MP they had raised in advance. These discussions included
- the implementation of the Conversion Practices Prohibition Bill 2024 and related impacts on the Equal Opportunities Act 1984,
- the potential for a human Rights Act in South Australia,
- potential action on unnecessary and/or non-consensual interventional surgeries on intersex babies, children, and youth, and
- LGBTIQA+ community experiences in education and with the homelessness sector
The Council’s discussion with Country Health SA staff provided members with the opportunity to emphasise the need for more inclusive, culturally informed, and accessible mental health support for LGBTIQA+ and First Nations communities. Key concerns included barriers for trans and intersex individuals, lack of provider education, and limited support for youth under 16. Members highlighted the importance of accurate data collection, reducing consultation fatigue, and prioritising protective factors in suicide prevention. The need for culturally grounded peer support and training with an Aboriginal lens was also raised. Members encouraged continued engagement with SA Health and participation in the current survey to inform future planning.
Update as at 24 June 2025
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their first meeting of the new Term on 24 June 2025. The Council met with representatives of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet to discuss the development of the State’s first Social Statement. The Council also met with representatives of Country Health SA to discuss the Joint Regional Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan 2026-2029. Members also discussed an earlier out-of-session consultation held with the Department for Education regarding non-attendance at school and inclusive Education.
The attendance by Department for Premier and Cabinet staff provided an important opportunity for the Council to provide LGBTIQA+ perspectives at an early stage in the development of the Social Statement. Members emphasised the need for strong communities and meaningful partnerships and called for genuine action to achieve these. Members emphasised that safety should be understood beyond law and order and stressed the need to acknowledge historical injustices and ensure diverse grassroots voices are included in roundtable discussions. Members shared their experience with the long-standing silence of Aboriginal and LGBTIQA+ voices, and called for genuine recognition, accountability, and inclusive engagement from the government to build a more representative future.
Members discussed questions with the Minister for Human Services, the Hon Nat Cook MP they had raised in advance. These discussions included
- the implementation of the Conversion Practices Prohibition Bill 2024 and related impacts on the Equal Opportunities Act 1984,
- the potential for a human Rights Act in South Australia,
- potential action on unnecessary and/or non-consensual interventional surgeries on intersex babies, children, and youth, and
- LGBTIQA+ community experiences in education and with the homelessness sector
The Council’s discussion with Country Health SA staff provided members with the opportunity to emphasise the need for more inclusive, culturally informed, and accessible mental health support for LGBTIQA+ and First Nations communities. Key concerns included barriers for trans and intersex individuals, lack of provider education, and limited support for youth under 16. Members highlighted the importance of accurate data collection, reducing consultation fatigue, and prioritising protective factors in suicide prevention. The need for culturally grounded peer support and training with an Aboriginal lens was also raised. Members encouraged continued engagement with SA Health and participation in the current survey to inform future planning.
Update as at 5 November 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their 4th quarterly meeting on 5 November 2024. The Council met with representatives of the Department for Correctional Services (DCS) to discuss their Suicide Prevention Action Plan and procedures for trans and/or gender diverse people in custody. The Council also met with representatives from the Department for Child Protection (DCP) to discuss their procedures around the systemic support for LGBTIQA+ young people in care, and related support for foster/residential carers and social workers including those in regional/rural areas.
The attendance by Department for Correctional Services staff provided an important opportunity for the Council to raise issues concerning the safety of LGBTIQA+ people in custody. DCS’s new Suicide Prevention Action Plan was discussed with Council members encouraged to make formal submissions to DCS out-of-session. The Council then had a discussion regarding DCS’s ‘Policy 35 – Trans, Gender Diverse and Intersex People in Prison or Community Corrections’. Discussions focussed on how DCS assesses people to determine their pathways through prison, DCS’s workplace culture, and how LGBTIQA+ people may be best supported in prison. The Council highlighted the danger of risk-assessments being used that contribute to incorrect assumptions surrounding trans women, as well as the impact of staff attitudes on the safety of those in custody. DCS confirmed they were continuing to review the work practices and would be happy to continue to work with the Council through this process.
The Council’s discussion with representatives from the Department for Child Protection enabled the Council to highlight the vulnerabilities of, and issues specific to, young LGBTIQA+ people in care. The discussion centred around DCP’s ‘Supporting children and young people who identify as LGBTIQA+’ Practice Paper. The Council raised concerns with the inappropriate use of young person’s birth name, ensuring young LGBTIQA+ young people have access to appropriate networks and support groups, and questioned how DCP regulates faith-based service providers. DCP staff also expressed the desire for an ongoing relationship with the Council.
This was the final meeting of the current term of the Council. Members were advised they were welcome to reapply to the Council for the 2025–2026 term.
Update as at 5 November 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their 4th quarterly meeting on 5 November 2024. The Council met with representatives of the Department for Correctional Services (DCS) to discuss their Suicide Prevention Action Plan and procedures for trans and/or gender diverse people in custody. The Council also met with representatives from the Department for Child Protection (DCP) to discuss their procedures around the systemic support for LGBTIQA+ young people in care, and related support for foster/residential carers and social workers including those in regional/rural areas.
The attendance by Department for Correctional Services staff provided an important opportunity for the Council to raise issues concerning the safety of LGBTIQA+ people in custody. DCS’s new Suicide Prevention Action Plan was discussed with Council members encouraged to make formal submissions to DCS out-of-session. The Council then had a discussion regarding DCS’s ‘Policy 35 – Trans, Gender Diverse and Intersex People in Prison or Community Corrections’. Discussions focussed on how DCS assesses people to determine their pathways through prison, DCS’s workplace culture, and how LGBTIQA+ people may be best supported in prison. The Council highlighted the danger of risk-assessments being used that contribute to incorrect assumptions surrounding trans women, as well as the impact of staff attitudes on the safety of those in custody. DCS confirmed they were continuing to review the work practices and would be happy to continue to work with the Council through this process.
The Council’s discussion with representatives from the Department for Child Protection enabled the Council to highlight the vulnerabilities of, and issues specific to, young LGBTIQA+ people in care. The discussion centred around DCP’s ‘Supporting children and young people who identify as LGBTIQA+’ Practice Paper. The Council raised concerns with the inappropriate use of young person’s birth name, ensuring young LGBTIQA+ young people have access to appropriate networks and support groups, and questioned how DCP regulates faith-based service providers. DCP staff also expressed the desire for an ongoing relationship with the Council.
This was the final meeting of the current term of the Council. Members were advised they were welcome to reapply to the Council for the 2025–2026 term.
Update as at 3 September 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their third quarterly meeting on 3 September 2024. The Council discussed the 2026 census, proposed Deepfakes legislation, the Child and Young People (Safety and Support) Bill, and met with the Royal Commissioner for Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natasha Stott Despoja AO.
The Council expressed their disappointment with the federal government’s decision to not include questions on sexual orientation, sexual characteristics and gender identity in the 2026 census. The Council sees this as an opportunity for the state and federal government to reflect on data collection practices for inclusion of the LGBTIQA+ community.
The Council discussed the need for specific protections provided in Deepfakes legislation, identifying the potential to blackmail, falsely out or portray and harass people. While the current legislation is broadly effective, the Council believes there needs to be more specificity in place to ensure these harms are illegal.
When discussing the draft of the Children and Young People (Safety and Support) Bill 2024, the Council expressed great concern that LGBTIQA+ young people were not identified as priority group throughout the Bill or review report. The Council acknowledged the rightful focus on Aboriginal children and young people but were concerned that the diversity amongst Aboriginal young people and children has not been acknowledged. The Council will be extending an invite to the Department for Child Protection to discuss these concerns.
The Royal Commissioner’s attendance provided an important opportunity for the Council to discuss the experiences of LGBTIQA+ people and to raise topics such as the importance of accessible and inclusive services for LGBTIQA+ people and the need for accurate data collection. The Council had a broad and frank discussion with the Royal Commissioner about the attitudes towards violence toward and within the LGBTIQA+ community and the need for greater awareness of what violence looks like in LGBTIQA+ relationships. The Council thanked the Royal Commissioner for her time and ongoing effort to ensure that the Royal Commission into Family, Domestic, and Sexual Violence includes and meets the needs of the LGBTIQA+ community.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council will meet for the final meeting of their term on 5 November 2024.
Update as at 3 September 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their third quarterly meeting on 3 September 2024. The Council discussed the 2026 census, proposed Deepfakes legislation, the Child and Young People (Safety and Support) Bill, and met with the Royal Commissioner for Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natasha Stott Despoja AO.
The Council expressed their disappointment with the federal government’s decision to not include questions on sexual orientation, sexual characteristics and gender identity in the 2026 census. The Council sees this as an opportunity for the state and federal government to reflect on data collection practices for inclusion of the LGBTIQA+ community.
The Council discussed the need for specific protections provided in Deepfakes legislation, identifying the potential to blackmail, falsely out or portray and harass people. While the current legislation is broadly effective, the Council believes there needs to be more specificity in place to ensure these harms are illegal.
When discussing the draft of the Children and Young People (Safety and Support) Bill 2024, the Council expressed great concern that LGBTIQA+ young people were not identified as priority group throughout the Bill or review report. The Council acknowledged the rightful focus on Aboriginal children and young people but were concerned that the diversity amongst Aboriginal young people and children has not been acknowledged. The Council will be extending an invite to the Department for Child Protection to discuss these concerns.
The Royal Commissioner’s attendance provided an important opportunity for the Council to discuss the experiences of LGBTIQA+ people and to raise topics such as the importance of accessible and inclusive services for LGBTIQA+ people and the need for accurate data collection. The Council had a broad and frank discussion with the Royal Commissioner about the attitudes towards violence toward and within the LGBTIQA+ community and the need for greater awareness of what violence looks like in LGBTIQA+ relationships. The Council thanked the Royal Commissioner for her time and ongoing effort to ensure that the Royal Commission into Family, Domestic, and Sexual Violence includes and meets the needs of the LGBTIQA+ community.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council will meet for the final meeting of their term on 5 November 2024.
Update as at 28 May 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their second quarterly meeting for the year on Tuesday 28 May 2024. The Council provided feedback on DHS’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan, discussed conversion practices, and had a mid-term review of the LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council functions and support requirements.
As LGBTIQA+ people are a priority population in the Suicide Prevention Action Plan, the Council advised that the state government agencies involved need to consider the following areas to support the LGBTIQA+ community:
- Understanding the correlations between the LGBTIQA+ community and autism and neurodivergence as both these populations are over-represented in suicide statistics.
- More funding to support capacity building across agencies.
- More LGBTIQA-friendly GPs, psychologists and psychiatrists to support LGBTIQA+ people.
- Ensure there are appropriate services for CALD LGBTIQA+ people.
After their last meeting, the Council wrote to the Premier and Minister for Health and Wellbeing regarding legislation banning conversion practices and extra support for LGBTIQA+ people. The Chair will be meeting with the Advisors of both the Premier and the Minister for Health and Wellbeing to discuss the ongoing existence of conversion practices and the importance of extra supports required for the LGBTIQA+ community members who are survivors.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council will next meet on 3 September 2024.
Update as at 28 May 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their second quarterly meeting for the year on Tuesday 28 May 2024. The Council provided feedback on DHS’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan, discussed conversion practices, and had a mid-term review of the LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council functions and support requirements.
As LGBTIQA+ people are a priority population in the Suicide Prevention Action Plan, the Council advised that the state government agencies involved need to consider the following areas to support the LGBTIQA+ community:
- Understanding the correlations between the LGBTIQA+ community and autism and neurodivergence as both these populations are over-represented in suicide statistics.
- More funding to support capacity building across agencies.
- More LGBTIQA-friendly GPs, psychologists and psychiatrists to support LGBTIQA+ people.
- Ensure there are appropriate services for CALD LGBTIQA+ people.
After their last meeting, the Council wrote to the Premier and Minister for Health and Wellbeing regarding legislation banning conversion practices and extra support for LGBTIQA+ people. The Chair will be meeting with the Advisors of both the Premier and the Minister for Health and Wellbeing to discuss the ongoing existence of conversion practices and the importance of extra supports required for the LGBTIQA+ community members who are survivors.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council will next meet on 3 September 2024.
Update as at 27 February 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council had their first meeting for 2024 on Tuesday 27 February. Along with meeting the Minister, the Council met with the Director for the Office for Women Dr Sanjugta Vas Dev and Equal Opportunity Commissioner Jodeen Carney.
Dr Vas Dev discussed the upcoming Domestic and Family Violence Royal Commission with the Council. The Council was provided with recent statistics on Domestic and Family Violence that relate to LGBTIQA+ victims. The Council was also advised of initiatives currently being undertaken to support LGBTIQA+ victims of Family and Domestic Violence. The Council wanted to make clear that while Family and Domestic Violence largely impacts women in heterosexual relationships, that the Royal Commission cannot ignore LGBTIQA+ victims and perpetrators and the complexity of those relationships.
In their meeting with the Equal Opportunity Commissioner, the Commissioner explained to the Council the function of the office and the process of complaints and processes for resolution. The Council discussed the need to promote Equal Opportunity SA and was very glad to learn of its function and capabilities. Another area of discussion were the religious exemptions to the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) and if there is the potential for these exemptions to be reviewed.
The Council’s discussion with the Minister largely centred on the importance of Conversion Practice ban legislation. The Minister and the Council discussed the need for appropriate supports for the LGBTIQA+ community, particularly survivors, during the debate and expected media coverage when the Bill does go for consultation. The Council intends to write to the relevant Ministers to advocate for an increase of services to support the LGBTIQA+ community and to the Premier to emphasise the importance of Conversion Practice ban legislation.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council has their next meeting on 28 May 2024.
Update as at 27 February 2024
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council had their first meeting for 2024 on Tuesday 27 February. Along with meeting the Minister, the Council met with the Director for the Office for Women Dr Sanjugta Vas Dev and Equal Opportunity Commissioner Jodeen Carney.
Dr Vas Dev discussed the upcoming Domestic and Family Violence Royal Commission with the Council. The Council was provided with recent statistics on Domestic and Family Violence that relate to LGBTIQA+ victims. The Council was also advised of initiatives currently being undertaken to support LGBTIQA+ victims of Family and Domestic Violence. The Council wanted to make clear that while Family and Domestic Violence largely impacts women in heterosexual relationships, that the Royal Commission cannot ignore LGBTIQA+ victims and perpetrators and the complexity of those relationships.
In their meeting with the Equal Opportunity Commissioner, the Commissioner explained to the Council the function of the office and the process of complaints and processes for resolution. The Council discussed the need to promote Equal Opportunity SA and was very glad to learn of its function and capabilities. Another area of discussion were the religious exemptions to the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) and if there is the potential for these exemptions to be reviewed.
The Council’s discussion with the Minister largely centred on the importance of Conversion Practice ban legislation. The Minister and the Council discussed the need for appropriate supports for the LGBTIQA+ community, particularly survivors, during the debate and expected media coverage when the Bill does go for consultation. The Council intends to write to the relevant Ministers to advocate for an increase of services to support the LGBTIQA+ community and to the Premier to emphasise the importance of Conversion Practice ban legislation.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council has their next meeting on 28 May 2024.
Update as at 7 November 2023
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their 4th quarterly meeting on Tuesday 7 November 2023. In the absence of the Minister, the Council met with Mr Jason Tuazon-McCheyne, CEO of The Equality Project, Professor Martin Westwell, Chief Executive of Department for Education and provided feedback on the State-wide Gender Diversity Model of Care.
Mr Tuazon-McCheyne discussed with the Council The Equality Project’s current research project as part of the Fay Fuller Foundation grant they received. Mr Tuazon-McCheyne shared current trends that The Equality Project has found through the approximately 300 interviews and conversations that they have currently conducted with LGBTIQA+ people about what they are witnessing in the community and what they would like to change.
Professor Westwell shared with the Council what the Department for Education is doing to support inclusivity in their schools and sites to support LGBTIQA+ students and staff. Professor Westwell advised that Department for Education is ensuring a ‘student first’ approach is adopted by making sure that every students’ sense of belonging and well-being are prioritised factors.
The Council welcomed the opportunity to provide feedback on the recently released State-wide Gender Diversity Model of Care. The Council’s feedback focused on the implementation, and they emphasised the importance of having a dedicated budget, educating LHNs, GPs and health professionals as well as ensuring there are clear pathways to support.
The expression of interest process to fill two positions on the LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council closed on the 14 November 2023. Applications will be reviewed and the new members will be appointed before the end of 2023.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council will meet again in 2024.
Update as at 7 November 2023
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their 4th quarterly meeting on Tuesday 7 November 2023. In the absence of the Minister, the Council met with Mr Jason Tuazon-McCheyne, CEO of The Equality Project, Professor Martin Westwell, Chief Executive of Department for Education and provided feedback on the State-wide Gender Diversity Model of Care.
Mr Tuazon-McCheyne discussed with the Council The Equality Project’s current research project as part of the Fay Fuller Foundation grant they received. Mr Tuazon-McCheyne shared current trends that The Equality Project has found through the approximately 300 interviews and conversations that they have currently conducted with LGBTIQA+ people about what they are witnessing in the community and what they would like to change.
Professor Westwell shared with the Council what the Department for Education is doing to support inclusivity in their schools and sites to support LGBTIQA+ students and staff. Professor Westwell advised that Department for Education is ensuring a ‘student first’ approach is adopted by making sure that every students’ sense of belonging and well-being are prioritised factors.
The Council welcomed the opportunity to provide feedback on the recently released State-wide Gender Diversity Model of Care. The Council’s feedback focused on the implementation, and they emphasised the importance of having a dedicated budget, educating LHNs, GPs and health professionals as well as ensuring there are clear pathways to support.
The expression of interest process to fill two positions on the LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council closed on the 14 November 2023. Applications will be reviewed and the new members will be appointed before the end of 2023.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council will meet again in 2024.
Update as at 19 September 2023
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their third quarterly meeting on Tuesday 19 September 2023. Along with meeting with the Minister, the Council met with the Assistant Minister for Autism Hon Emily Bourke MLC and Kenton Miller from the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
The Minister updated the Council on the approval of the Gender Diversity Model of Care and how the Government intends to support the LGBTIQA+ community. The Minister and the Council also briefly discussed the progression of the Conversion Practice Ban.
The Council was informed by the Assistant Minister of the establishment and functions of her role and the Office for Autism. The Council highlighted to the Assistant Minister that Autism is highly over-represented in the LGBTIQA+ community, so it is important the LGBTIQA+ people are part of discussions impacting the autism community.
The Council was joined virtually by Kenton Miller from VEOHRC who provided information on the legislative process and implementation of Victoria’s Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meets next in November.
Update as at 19 September 2023
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their third quarterly meeting on Tuesday 19 September 2023. Along with meeting with the Minister, the Council met with the Assistant Minister for Autism Hon Emily Bourke MLC and Kenton Miller from the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
The Minister updated the Council on the approval of the Gender Diversity Model of Care and how the Government intends to support the LGBTIQA+ community. The Minister and the Council also briefly discussed the progression of the Conversion Practice Ban.
The Council was informed by the Assistant Minister of the establishment and functions of her role and the Office for Autism. The Council highlighted to the Assistant Minister that Autism is highly over-represented in the LGBTIQA+ community, so it is important the LGBTIQA+ people are part of discussions impacting the autism community.
The Council was joined virtually by Kenton Miller from VEOHRC who provided information on the legislative process and implementation of Victoria’s Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021.
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council meets next in November.
Update as at 6 June 2023
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their second quarterly meeting on Tuesday 6 June 2023. During the meeting, the Council was provided with an update from the Department of Health and Wellbeing on the progress of the Model of Care for Transgender and Gender-Diverse people, currently in development, and discussed progress in relation to the State Government’s commitment to ensure that conversion practices do not occur in South Australia.
The Council strongly supports timely and comprehensive implementation of the Model of Care. The Council acknowledged that while progress now is important, it does not compensate for the lives lost in the past due to the inadequate care, prejudice and mistreatment that LGBTIQA+ people have experienced.
The Council also expressed to the Minister the importance of legislative reform to ban conversion practices. They expressed concern that the reform has yet to progress and have requested an update on timing. Council members indicated their interest in learning from the Victorian experience in enacting legislative reform in this area and noted the critical importance of support to people who have been subjected to or are at risk of these practices.
The Council is looking forward to working with the Minister and the Government on these important reforms for LGBTIQA+ South Australians.
Council members also provided their insights to inform the State’s next Youth Action Plan 2023-26 and highlighted the importance of an intersectional focus in meeting the needs of South Australia’s young people. Anyone is welcome to have their say on the Youth Action Plan until 6 August. South Australia’s Youth Action Plan 2023-2026 | YourSAy
The Council meets next in September 2023.
Update as at 6 June 2023
The LGBTIQA+ Minister’s Advisory Council met for their second quarterly meeting on Tuesday 6 June 2023. During the meeting, the Council was provided with an update from the Department of Health and Wellbeing on the progress of the Model of Care for Transgender and Gender-Diverse people, currently in development, and discussed progress in relation to the State Government’s commitment to ensure that conversion practices do not occur in South Australia.
The Council strongly supports timely and comprehensive implementation of the Model of Care. The Council acknowledged that while progress now is important, it does not compensate for the lives lost in the past due to the inadequate care, prejudice and mistreatment that LGBTIQA+ people have experienced.
The Council also expressed to the Minister the importance of legislative reform to ban conversion practices. They expressed concern that the reform has yet to progress and have requested an update on timing. Council members indicated their interest in learning from the Victorian experience in enacting legislative reform in this area and noted the critical importance of support to people who have been subjected to or are at risk of these practices.
The Council is looking forward to working with the Minister and the Government on these important reforms for LGBTIQA+ South Australians.
Council members also provided their insights to inform the State’s next Youth Action Plan 2023-26 and highlighted the importance of an intersectional focus in meeting the needs of South Australia’s young people. Anyone is welcome to have their say on the Youth Action Plan until 6 August. South Australia’s Youth Action Plan 2023-2026 | YourSAy
The Council meets next in September 2023.