At Study Melbourne we celebrate and support diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or cultural background. We invite you to explore, learn, and connect with us as you embark on this exciting journey as an international student in Victoria. Remember, you are not alone – our community stands strong together!
This page is specially curated for international students from the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. Here you can find vital information, resources and support for LGBTQIA+ international students navigating life in Victoria. These include:
Community and Events
Stay updated on various LGBTQIA+ events, meetups and gatherings in Victoria. Connect with like-minded individuals, build friendships and create lasting memories as you explore the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.
- Chillout festival – https://www.chilloutfestival.com.au/
- IDAHOBIT – https://www.idahobit.org.au/
- Melbourne Queer Film Festival – http://mqff.com.au/
- Midsumma festival – https://midsumma.org.au/
- Eventbrite - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/d/australia--melbourne/queer/
- Switchboard Victoria - https://www.switchboard.org.au/antiracism
- FDPN - https://fdpn.org.au/
- Australian GLBT multicultural council (AGMC) - https://www.agmc.org.au/
- Queerspace - https://www.queerspace.org.au/our-programs/mentoring-programs/
Support Services
We understand the unique challenges international students may face, which is why we've compiled a list of local LGBTQIA+ support organisations and helplines. The services are free and confidential, but phone charges may vary. Whether you need advice, counselling or just someone to talk to, help is just a click away.
- Study Melbourne Hub - https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/study-melbourne-hub
- Lifeline - https://www.lifeline.org.au/
- Rainbow Door - https://www.rainbowdoor.org.au/
Safe Spaces
Discover LGBTQIA+-friendly venues and community centers across Victoria where you can feel free to express yourself without judgment. From lively nightlife to cosy hangouts, we've got you covered.
- TimeOut - https://www.timeout.com/melbourne/lgbt
- Queerspace - https://www.queerspace.org.au/community/
- Victorian Pride Centre - https://pridecentre.org.au/
Legal and Health Information
Get informed about LGBTQIA+ rights and protections in Victoria and Australia. Access information on healthcare services, including LGBTQIA+ sensitive medical practitioners.
- Legal: Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission https://www.humanrights.vic.gov.au/hub/lgbtiq-rights/
- Health: Melbourne Sexual Health Centre https://www.mshc.org.au/
Coming Out Guidance
For those who are considering, or in the process of, coming out you can check supportive articles, personal stories and tips to help you navigate this journey with confidence and self-assurance.
- https://www.minus18.org.au/articles/tips-for-coming-out
- https://www.minus18.org.au/articles/it's-okay-not-to-come-out
Sports Clubs
Find LGBTQIA+ sports clubs in Victoria and connect with like-minded people while playing your favourite sport.
Educational Resources
Access a range of educational materials on LGBTQIA+ history, terminology, and contemporary issues. Enhance your knowledge and become an advocate for positive change.
- Terminology - https://www.minus18.org.au/articles/your-guide-to-words-and-definitions-in-the-lgbtqia+-community
- Inclusive Language Guide - https://www.vic.gov.au/inclusive-language-guide
- For families and friends - https://www.humanrights.vic.gov.au/change-or-suppression-practices/for-families-and-friends/
LGBTIQ+ student groups
Join fellow queer students in various LGBTIQ+ student groups around Victoria. Connect with other students, engage in discussions, participate in activities, and make friends.
- Deakin University (Burwood) - https://www.dusa.org.au/clubs/deakin-pride-pride
- Deakin University (Geelong) – https://www.dusa.org.au/clubs/queer-collective
- Latrobe University - https://www.latrobesu.org.au/Clubs/queercollective
- Monash University - https://www.facebook.com/MSA.Queer/
- RMIT - https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/support-services/lgbtiq/groups-resources
- Swinburne University - https://studentlife.swinburne.edu.au/Clubs/Gender-Agenda
- The University of Melbourne - https://umsu.unimelb.edu.au/communities/queer/
- Victoria University - https://www.facebook.com/VUqueer/
For more resources, you can visit the Victorian Pride Centre website.
If you have any questions or want to talk to someone from the Study Melbourne team, please contact us at info@studymelbourne.vic.gov.au.
This animation explains that trying to change or hide someone’s sexuality or gender identity is deeply harmful and it does not work. Victoria has a law against these practices.