Skip to content
Quick exitFirst NationsTranslationsGet helpSearch

LGBTIQ rights

We are not all the same, but we are all equal. Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, heterosexual, transgender, intersex, queer or questioning, you have the right to equal opportunity. It’s against the law for someone to treat you unfairly or bully you because of your sexual orientation or gender identity.

A young child holds up a bright sign at a protest. The sign reads 'defend and protect queer kids'.

Photo by Denin Lawley on Unsplash

Topics

Expunged homosexual conviction

How other laws protect your right to be yourself

Change or suppression (conversion) practices

It’s against the law for someone to try to change or suppress – or get you to change or suppress – your sexual orientation or gender identity, even if you ask for help to do so. Read more about these practices and how to make a report.

Key stats

60%

of LGBTQI+ young people felt unsafe or uncomfortable disclosing their sexuality or gender identity at secondary school.

Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (2019)

Stories

Jakub's story

"Me being gay has never really bothered anyone else, but this guy had a real problem with it. He made a point of using ‘gay’ and ‘homo’ as an insult when I was around and couldn’t help making snide remarks about gay people and putting on a fake lisp."

Factsheet: Religious exception reforms – Equal Opportunity Act 2010

Was this page helpful?
Please select Yes or No and the second form section will appear below:

Address
Level 3, 204 Lygon Street Carlton Victoria 3053

General enquiries
enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au

Reception
1300 891 848

Enquiry line
1300 292 153 or (03) 9032 3583

Interpreters
1300 152 494

NRS Voice Relay
1300 555 727 then use 1300 292 153

Media enquiries
0447 526 642

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission acknowledges that we work on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We also work remotely and serve communities on the lands of other Traditional Custodians.

We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.