Often people who identify as part of the Australian LGBTQIA+ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and other sexuality, gender, and bodily diverse) experience mental health challenges. Individuals can experience obstacles in the health system resulting in poorer health and wellbeing outcomes.
Mental health
LGBTQIA+ mental health services
Need urgent support?
You’re not alone. If you’re in distress and need to speak to someone, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you're unsure which service is right for you, we recommend visiting your GP for advice.
In Australia, LGBTQIA+ communities are 4 times more likely to be psychologically distressed than non-LGBTQIA+ people.
Hill, A. O., Bourne, A., McNair, R., Carman, M. & Lyons, A. (2020). Private Lives 3: The health and wellbeing of LGBTIQ people in Australia.LGBTQIA+
Affordable
In-person
Virtual
This support pathway is suitable for individuals who identify as part of, or work with, the LGBTQIA+ community in Australia.
If you have experienced threats or violence, report it to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
Reasons to use this service
- Looking for practitioners specialising in LGBTQIA+ issues.
- Need to address specific cultural or community concerns.
- Anonymous referrals (if needed).
Things to consider
- Not always suitable for severe or crisis situations.
- Some services do not work outside of capital cities.
- Not available 24/7.
Explore LGBTQIA+ mental health services
Headspace
150 centres nationwide with low cost counselling and support for young people aged 12-25, as well as free phone services.
TWENTY10
A range of support services and social spaces for people aged under 26 of diverse genders, sexualities and sexes in NSW.
Rainbow Door
Anonymous, free telephone counselling, information and referrals for LGBTQIA+ people in Victoria.
Living Proud
Providing support to LGBTQIA+ people and communities in Western Australia, with peer support, information and resources.
Open Doors Youth Service
Provides support to young people with diverse genders, bodies and sexualities aged 12 to 24 across South East Queensland.
ACON
Providing support to LGBTQIA+ people and communities in Western Australia, with peer support, information and resources.
TransHub
ACON’s digital information and resource platform for all trans and gender diverse (TGD) people in NSW, their loved ones, allies and health providers.
Are you in need of urgent support?
We've put together a list of services for free support that's relevant to where you live, and what you're going through.
Discover free online treatment programs
This Way Up is an online program to learn practical tips for managing mental health. It’s a new way to do therapy from the comfort of your own home.
Bupa members can access one free mental health and wellbeing treatment program.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.