REGIONAL Australians who identify as LGBTQ+ are reporting growing levels of discrimination, with new research led by Charles Sturt University (CSU) academics revealing many people still do not feel safe being themselves in country communities.
Professor Suzanne McLaren, from CSU’s School of Psychology in Port Macquarie, co-led the second Regional Rainbow Survey alongside Associate Professor Clifford Lewis from the University’s School of Business in Bathurst.
The survey, completed by 117 LGBTQ+ adults living in rural and regional Australia, found more than 40 per cent of respondents had experienced discrimination from strangers over the past 12 months, while around one quarter reported discrimination at work or from family and friends.
The findings also revealed participants had noticed an increase in hate directed towards LGBTQ+ people, particularly trans women.
Fifteen percent of respondents said they had experienced discrimination while accessing physical healthcare, while 16 per cent reported a need for greater access to gender-affirming healthcare services and more knowledgeable general practitioners.
Associate Professor Lewis said the results highlighted the continuing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people outside metropolitan areas.
“LGBTQ+ people in rural or regional Australia still report worse mental health compared to those in our cities,” he said.
“One in three with a diverse sexual orientation, and two in five with a diverse gender identity, are not out to some degree.
“This speaks to the fear LGBTQ+ people in regional communities live with.”
Released during Pride Month, the research also points to the importance of community allies in improving wellbeing and inclusion.
“We need more allies in rural and regional towns,” Associate Professor Lewis said.
“Allyship can happen in all the small things – like reporting anti-trans hate speech on social media, reminding your LGBTQ+ friends, family and neighbours that you love them, and calling out discrimination when you see it.”
The researchers hope the ongoing Regional Rainbow Survey will build evidence to inform future government policies, improve access to services and help create safer, more inclusive communities across regional Australia.
By Sis HIGGINS
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