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Embracing identity

Young Carers who are a part of the rainbow community face the same stresses and pressures as other carers. But you may also face added problems of discrimination.

For 80% of young LGBTIQA+ people, discrimination and bullying happens within their school and has a huge effect on their wellbeing and education. Compared to straight people, nearly twice as many people who aren’t straight are discriminated or abused because of their sexuality. This is even higher for gender diverse and transgender people. People with intersex variations also experience high rates of discrimination, harm and abuse.

Equality and freedom from discrimination are fundamental human rights that belong to all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or because they are intersex. The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 makes if unlawful to discriminate on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status against the law.

There are also many organisations and resources designed specifically to help rainbow Young Carers understand their rights and be supported to access services:

• Qlife — Australia-wide anonymous and free LGBTI peer support for people wanting to talk about sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. Call 1800 184 527 or web chat 3pm-12am AEST.
• Minus 18 — Resources help and guidance for Australia’s LGBTIQ youth.
• Black Rainbow — Australia’s leading Indigenous suicide prevention and mental health support source for LGBTQ+ people.
• Trans Pride Australia — Social and support group for trans and gender diverse people and their loved ones.
• Intersex Peer Support — An intersex peer support, information and advocacy group for people born with variations in sex characteristics.
• Intersex Human Rights Australia — Support and education by and for people with intersex variation traits.
• Headspace — Australia-wide online, phone and in-person support and counselling to young people, their families and friends. Call 1800 650 890 (9am-1am).
• ReachOut — ReachOut.com helps under 25s with everyday questions through to tough times.

If you are in crisis or need urgent help, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.