Who Makes Up the LGBTQIA+ Community?
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS, 2022), around 4.5% of Australians aged 16 and over identify as LGBTQIA+, which includes people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, or other diverse sexual and gender identities. This equates to more than 900,000 Australians, a figure that has grown steadily as more individuals feel safe to express their identities. The growth in visibility underscores the importance of fostering inclusive environments that support mental health and wellbeing.
Yet visibility doesn’t always equate to acceptance. While progress has been made in areas such as marriage equality and anti-discrimination legislation, many LGBTQIA+ Australians continue to face social stigma, discrimination, and systemic barriers—factors that deeply affect mental health.
Mental Health in the LGBTQIA+ Community
LGBTQIA+ individuals often encounter unique stressors, including discrimination, stigma, and social exclusion, contributing to higher rates of mental health issues. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, LGBTQIA+ Australians are more likely to experience mental health conditions compared to the general population.
- 43.2% of LGBTQIA+ adults are diagnosed with a mental health condition, compared with 21.5% of heterosexual adults.
- 1 in 2 LGBTQIA+ Australians aged 16–24 report high or very high psychological distress.
- Trans and gender-diverse individuals report particularly high rates of anxiety and depression.
Mental Health Matters: Understanding the Hidden Toll on LGBTQIA+ Lives
Most commonly, these disparities can be attributed to ongoing experiences of marginalisation, bullying, discrimination, and family rejection.
Common mental health concerns within the LGBTQIA+ community can include:
- Internalised Shame & Stigma: Where external discrimination and prejudice can be internalised by individuals.
- Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.
- Anxiety and Social Anxiety: Excessive worry and fear in social situations.
- Eating Disorders: Unhealthy relationships with food and body image.
- Substance Use Disorders: Increased risk of alcohol and drug misuse.
- Suicidal Ideation: Higher prevalence of thoughts about self-harm or suicide.
The Private Lives 3 Survey (2020), conducted by La Trobe University with over 6,000 LGBTQIA+ Australians, also found high levels of suicidal ideation, particularly among younger respondents, trans and gender-diverse people, and those living in rural or regional areas.
The Role of Community and Connection
Protective factors such as community connectedness, positive social relationships, and access to affirming healthcare can significantly reduce the risk of mental ill-health. Pride events and networks can provide not only celebration but also visibility, validation, and solidarity. Creating inclusive spaces—at home, in schools, and in workplaces—can go a long way toward supporting wellbeing.
Inclusive Workplaces Matter
LGBTQIA+ employees who feel safe and supported at work report better mental health and higher job satisfaction. Employers play a crucial role in creating inclusive environments. Practical steps include:
- Implementing anti-discrimination and inclusion policies
- Offering diversity training for all staff
- Establishing LGBTQIA+ employee resource groups
- Providing access to confidential mental health support
- Visibly supporting Pride events and LGBTQIA+ causes
According to the Australian Workplace Equality Index (2023), inclusive policies and leadership directly correlate with employee retention, engagement, and wellbeing.
Support and Resources
For employers and individuals looking to make a difference, support is available. Converge can provide confidential employee assistance (EAP), workplace training, and leadership consulting that foster inclusive cultures. We also have a specialist helpline with dedicated and experienced consultants who understand LGBTQIA+ needs. Additionally, organisations such as Beyond Blue, QLife, and Switchboard offer free and inclusive mental health support tailored for the LGBTQIA+ community.
