The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care is reviewing the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards to ensure they remain relevant and effective in promoting safe, high-quality care. This first consultation for the third edition focuses on strengthening governance, integration, and cultural safety across the health system.

LGBTIQ+ Health Australia’s submission welcomes the review and calls for stronger inclusion of equity and culturally safe practice for LGBTIQ+ populations. It recommends aligning the Standards with the National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ People 2025–2035 and the ABS 2020 Standard to improve data collection and care quality. The submission highlights the need to recognise LGBTIQ+ community-controlled organisations and embed affirming care throughout all Standards.

You can read the full submission here.