LGBTIQ+ Health Australia (LHA), the national peak body for LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing, congratulates the Government on the launch of Australia’s first 10-Year National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ People (Action Plan), and the significant investment of $15.5 million.
This landmark initiative is the result of over eight years of work by LHA and others in advocating for a national action plan to address systemic inequities and improve health outcomes for LGBTIQA+ people across Australia.
LHA CEO, Nicky Bath, said, “The Action Plan sets out a clear path to drive system-wide cultural and practical change and ensure LGBTIQA+ people are recognised as priority populations. It addresses critical areas including mental health, prevention, improving health literacy, championing diversity and supporting inclusive models of care. The Action Plan and substantial investment, is a pivotal moment for Australia and are essential steps toward achieving equity, inclusion, and respect for LGBTIQA+ people in healthcare systems.”
Ms Bath added, “We know this plan is not a magic wand that will fix everything overnight. The plan provides the much-needed levers to work with and holds up the critical work undertaken by LGBTIQA+ community–controlled organisations. Importantly, the Action Plan provides a mechanism to collaborate with governments across Australia—regardless of political persuasion—in a non- partisan way to remove the health disparities experienced by LGBTIQA+ people and communities in Australia.”
The Action Plan was developed through consultation and engagement with LGBTIQA+ people, LGBTIQA+ community-controlled organisations, healthcare providers, and researchers. It establishes a strategic framework to build leadership within the Australian Government, strengthen preventive health measures, foster community connections, and ensure health systems are accessible, safe, and responsive to the needs of LGBTIQA+ people. Importantly, the plan recognises people’s right to make decisions about their own bodies, ensures safe and autonomous access to care, provides support for LGBTIQA+ people experiencing domestic, family, and sexual violence, and strengthens culturally safe mental health and suicide prevention services.
“Developing Action Plans involves a significant amount of work, dedication,
and collaboration. LHA would like to thank Assistant Minister Ged Kearney for her leadership and steadfast support in bringing this plan to fruition today. We also extend our gratitude to the Health Equity Branch of the Population Health Division within the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care for their hard work and partnership throughout this process.” Ms Bath said.
LHA Chair, Carolyn Gillespie, emphasised the need for sustained action: “The release of the Action Plan is a significant achievement, and its success will depend on sustained resourcing, accountability, and long-term collaboration with LGBTIQA+ people and their organisations. LHA urges all levels of government to ensure its implementation delivers meaningful change.”
Ms Gillespie added, “As the peak body for LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing, LHA remains committed to working closely with the Australian Government, LGBTIQA+ community-controlled organisations, healthcare providers and researchers to ensure this plan translates into tangible improvements in the lives of LGBTIQA+ people.”
