LGBTIQ+ Health Australia (LHA) has noted recent media comments indicating data retrieved from the LHA website and used in a speech by Minister Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria was not referenced. An investigation into this matter can confirm that the figure used related to the lifetime rate of suicide attempts, is noted in multiple locations on our website, and all LHA reports are referenced.

Founded in 2009, LHA is the national peak body for LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing for organisations and individuals that provide health-related programs, services and research focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans/transgender, intersex, queer and other sexual orientation, gender, and bodily diverse people. 

LHA members contribute a wealth of diverse expertise, capabilities, and capacities to the organisation. Together, we serve as a formidable and trusted voice. LHA is guided by four foundational pillars of work: policy and influence, member engagement and support, partnerships and collaboration, and the national facilitation of capacity building programs. 

Our vision is for healthy LGBTIQ+ individuals, communities, and organisations, free from the burdens of stigma and discrimination and supported by safe, affirming and accessible services. Our Strategic Plan 2024-2029 provides a cohesive national approach to LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing and outlines our ambitions for a strong national peak body for LGBTIQ+ health across Australia. Together, we can improve the health and wellbeing of our communities. 

LHA has responded by writing to Minister Jacinta Allan and the organisation responsible for the media comments. We encourage media professionals to utilise the MindFrame Reporting Guide to ensure safe and sensitive public communication about suicide and mental health concerns regarding LGBTIQ+ communities.   

LHA welcomes the opportunity to work with stakeholders to provide access to information, ensuring that public facing documents are accurate and trauma informed.