In the vibrant state of New South Wales (NSW), the Queer community stands out for its resilience, vibrancy, love, and Pride. Recognising the unique health needs and challenges faced by this community, the NSW Government has embarked on a groundbreaking journey with the launch of the NSW LGBTIQ+ Health Strategy 2022-2027. This strategy has been developed in order to foster better health practices which celebrate diversity, ensuring inclusion, and fostering a sense of belonging for all, core values that underpin a safe, harmonious, and prosperous society.
Historically, the Queer community has battled stigma, discrimination, and trauma — experiences that have no place in today’s health system or society. Every individual deserves to be treated with dignity, safety, respect, and kindness. This strategy aims to provide a common platform for the government and LGBTIQ+ New South Wales residents to listen, learn, and leap forward in improving the health and wellbeing of Queer people across the state.
In developing the strategy, over 1,600 Queer people across NSW shared their health needs, ability access, and experiences with health services. The insights gained underscored the importance of addressing the priority areas in our health system to support optimal outcomes. A Strategy Advisory Committee, comprising key LGBTIQ+ organisations and NSW Health representatives, played a crucial role in shaping the final strategy.
At the heart of the strategy is the recognition of the diversity within the LGBTIQ+ community, acknowledging that each individual has a unique story of strength and resilience. The strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to deliver high-quality, safe, inclusive, and responsive healthcare, focusing on four strategic priorities:
Deliver High-Quality, Safe, Inclusive, and Responsive Healthcare: Ensuring healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of LGBTIQ+ individuals.
Respond to the Health Needs of Transgender and Gender Diverse People: Creating pathways for gender-affirming treatments and care, and addressing the structural barriers faced by this group.
Respond to the Health Needs of Intersex People: Increasing awareness and understanding of intersex people's healthcare experiences and human rights.
Capture Data on Sexuality, Gender, and Intersex Variations: Improving data collection practices to support targeted service provision and monitor health outcomes effectively.
The NSW LGBTIQ+ Health Strategy is more than a document; it is a blueprint for action, and a commitment to realising a future where Queer individuals receive healthcare that truly matters to them. It envisions a health system that learns, shares, respects, and transforms lives for the better. Whilst the strategy isn't perfect, it provides a beacon of hope for a community so often overlooked and underserved.
This strategy marks a significant step towards inclusivity and equity in healthcare. It recognises the importance of partnership with the LGBTIQ+ community, ensuring that our voices are heard and valued in shaping a health system that is truly reflective of the diverse society it serves. The NSW Government, together with the Queer community and health professionals, is set to embark on this journey of transformation, making health practice more inclusive and meaningful for everyone.
As we move forward, the NSW LGBTIQ+ Health Strategy 2022-2027 stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Queer community and the collective commitment to a healthier, more inclusive future for all in NSW.
You can download the full document below.
By: Bec Joyno.
Hi! I'm Bec Joyno, a senior medical recruitment specialist with a decade of experience in sourcing talent for leading organisations in both the private and public sectors. My professional journey is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for science and medicine, which I leverage to collaborate effectively with medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, surgical staff, and specialists.