We are a Queer-led, interdisciplinary research space open to Queer researchers and our genuine allies with a commitment to strengthening authenticity, belonging and connection – the "ABCs of living Queer" – in local communities and mainstream research spaces at Deakin.
Recognising the isolation many Queer researchers face in straight academia, we established a supportive space for Queer researchers to be our authentic selves and cultivate a sense of belonging to something that feels meaningful.
We also hope that our space will act as a springboard for future research and community collaborations that strengthen Queer scholarship at the University and in mainstream research.
We are guided by two themes in Deakin’s 2030 Strategic Plan – improving health and wellbeing and building safe and secure communities – by embedding the following five community co-designed Queer equity principles into our work.
Promote the historical, cultural and social factors that shape LGBTIQA+ people's experiences, as well as understanding the language and terminology used to describe these experiences.
Promote equity, social justice and human rights of LGBTIQA+ people at individual, collective and systematic levels. We consult with Queer communities and advocacy groups for a shared advocacy responsibility.
Promote the availability and capacity of Queer-run services, as well as Queer safe spaces where LGBTIQA+ people can connect, socialise and express themselves in ways that are safe, welcoming and affirming.
Promote the visibility and representation of Queer people and communities. We co-design services and spaces with Queer lived experience advocates, such as inclusive health services systems and the safe disclosure and inclusiveness of Queer health professionals.
Promote responsiveness to intersecting identities of culture, class, age, ability, sexuality and gender – ensuring policy and practice is accountable to Queer communities' intersectional identities and lived experiences.
Through our initiative ‘Respect. Belong. Thrive’, we want everyone – our students, staff and local community partners – to feel part of our ambitious agenda. Learn how Deakin is creating a safe and respectful community for our staff and students.
The full affirmation of sexuality and gender diverse people’s fundamental human right to be themselves (authenticity), as active social citizens (belonging), in meaningful relationship with others and the natural world (connection).
Queering-Up Equity & Equality Research Spaces ("Q-UEERS")
Our vision drives us in ‘queering-up' mainstream research practices, knowledges and collaborations that promote equitable health, social and community spaces for sexually and gender-diverse people. Queering-up is a strategy of activism, a practice of innovation and a method of expression that challenges heteronormativity and cisgenderism and emphasises the importance of collaboration and partnership.
Dr Amie O'Shea led a research project that proposed recommendations to improve inclusivity and responsiveness of services for LGBTIQA+ people with disabilities.
Our team is co-convened by staff across the University.
Dr James Lucas is a senior lecturer in social work, with research interests in mental health social work, Queer health and wellbeing and spirituality.
Dr Priscilla Dunk-West is a best-selling author with expertise in social work, relationships, sexuality and sexual identities.
Dr Amie O’Shea is a senior lecturer in disability and inclusion with the School of Health and Social Development.
Dr Louisa Smith is a senior lecturer in disability and inclusion, using participatory and arts-based research methods to include people with disabilities, including dementia.
Andrew Brown is a lecturer in social work for the Faculty of Health. Andrew is also a public health researcher with the Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition.
If you’d like to learn more about Queering-Up Equity and Equality Research Spaces, we’d love to hear from you.
