LGBTIQ+ international students
Deakin is committed to making everyone feel welcome.
Being inclusive is one of Deakin’s guiding values. In Australia, it is against the law to discriminate against a person on the grounds of race, colour, national or ethnic origin, physical or mental capabilities or sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status.
Deakin has a large community of staff and students who identify as LGBTIQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer or questioning). Anyone can join Deakin’s LGBTIQ+ Community – those who identify as LGBTIQ+ as well as allies (supporters). To join or find out more email lgbtiq@deakin.edu.au
I feel involved and engaged, and I’m glad that I can help my friends and contribute to the community
- Danielle Wu, International student, LGBTIQ+ Steering Committee
Gender transition in Australia
- If you are an international student undergoing a gender transition in Australia and you are in great danger if you go back to your country due to death penalty or same-sex illegal acts as a result of your gender transition, you might be eligible for a Protection Visa Sub Class 866
- For free legal services make an appointment at the Refugee Legal Organisation or Asylum Seeker Resource Centre.
- Be sure your country of birth is part of the list provided by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Association (ILGA) and read the State Sponsored Homophobia report to confirm you are eligible for this visa.
- Every year, along with the State-Sponsored Homophobia report, ILGA publishes also maps of sexual orientation laws in the world.
Read more about diverse genders, intersex and gender transition at Deakin.
Support for international students
In addition to joining Deakin's LGBTIQ+ Community, you can access various support at Deakin:
- Deakin LGBTIQ+ Allies are students and staff members who are trained in supporting LGBTIQ+ students and staff. View the list of Allies and make contact for a chat.
- Harassment and Discrimination Contact Officers (HDCOs) are staff who are trained to assist staff and students with any enquiries about discrimination, sexual harassment or bullying.
- Deakin Counselling and Psychological Support: all counsellors have received training in LGBTIQ+ Awareness.
- For urgent support see the 24-hour support and crisis services.
- Also check out the Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council for news, events and resources. You can join for just $10 per year.
- For peer support, networking and volunteering opportunities, check out Thorne Harbour Health.
There are also many external support services. View all LGBTIQ+ support and resources.