Australia’s LGBT Community Can No Longer Be Left Behind, LHA Tells Political Parties
Australia is set to elect a new government in May 2022. The country’s peak national LGBTQI health organisation, LGBTIQ+ Health Australia (LHA), has called upon the major political parties and independent candidates to spell out their commitment and plans to improve the health and well being of the community. “LGBTIQ+ communities face significant barriers to improved health because of stigma and discrimination,” Nicky Bath, CEO, LHA, said in a statement. “All members of LGBTIQ+ communities, including those who live at the intersections of additional marginalised identities and experiences, can no longer be left behind.
Current systems are failing our communities, and these disparities will not only remain, but they will also deteriorate if LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing continue to be sidelined in policy and service and program planning,” Bath said.LHA’s 2022 Election Priorities has sought a commitment to a 10-year National LGBTIQ+ Health and Wellbeing Action Plan, with a dedicated office under the Department of health to monitor the plan’s implementation.
LHA has identified other priorities for the community, including: LHA has asked political parties to set aside their differences and build a consensus to advance the health priorities of the LGBTQI communities.
According to LHA, it is possible to “change the current trajectory of poorer health outcomes and instead, for example, reduce suicide, improve mental health, address alcohol and other drug use, tackle cancer and ensure investment is targeted to build a strong and responsive LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing sector.”If you feel distressed reading the story, you can reach out to support services.For 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention call Lifeline on 13 11 14Fo.
