Sexual and gender diversity
Universities have a key role to play in promoting cultural diversity among their staff and students. One dimension of 'culture' is sexual identity.
Other dimensions of culture include gender, religion, disability, age, and ethnicity. Acknowledging and affirming the sexual and gender diversity of the Flinders' community requires in part an understanding of issues impacting on people who do not identify as heterosexual.
These web pages are intended to serve as a resource of information about sexual and gender diversity for staff and students at Flinders University.
For the purposes of these resources, sexual and gender diversity encompasses people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, intersex, questioning, queer.
Australian Workplace Equality Index
Flinders, as part of its membership of Pride in Diversity (the national not-for-profit employer support program for sexual and gender diversity), will submit for the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI). This index sets the benchmark for LGBTIQ workplace inclusion nationally, and will provide us with valuable feedback on how we are tracking - what we are doing well and areas in which we can improve.
While the benchmark does provide us with feedback on what we are doing at an organisational level, it does not provide us with data on the lived day-to-day experience of our sexually and gender diverse employees within our organisation. Nor does it provide us with feedback on the views and level of awareness of our heterosexual (or 'straight') employees when it comes to sexual and gender diversity inclusion. To provide a balanced view of how we are tracking, we also participate each year in the AWEI survey. This optional, confidential employee survey can provide us with feedback on that missing 'lived experience'.
AWEI Employee Survey
The 2020 AWEI Employee Survey closed in early March. We will add the link for the 2021 survey when it opens in early 2021.
Creating inclusive environments
Universities have a key role to play in promoting the cultural diversity among their staff and students. The following information aims to provide both staff and students with suggestions on how to create a study and work environment that supports and affirms the sexual diversity of the Flinders community.
- Sexuality is one of many facets that make up a persons identity.
- Assume that approximately 10% of the people you work and study with identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, intersex, questioning and queer and others will have family and friends who identify as such.
- When a sexually diverse person expresses an interest in developing a friendship with you do not assume they are making an advance towards you.
- Be aware of the verbal and non-verbal messages you give out about your acceptance and affirmation of diverse sexual and gender identities.
- Reflect on any stereotypical attitudes you may hold in relation to diverse sexualities and do not allow them to cloud your professional judgement or workplace decisions.
- Recognise the diversity of family structures and relationships that exist in society. Not all families comprise of a heterosexual couple and children. Likewise, not all relationships are exclusively heterosexual.
- Sexual orientation is distinct from gender identity.
- Behaviour that offends, humiliates and creates a hostile environment may constitute harassment and is grounds for disciplinary action.
- When you observe homophobic behaviour or hear homophobic jokes or remarks, challenge them.
- All staff and students have a responsibility for creating a study and work environment that is free from harassment and discrimination.
- Familiarise yourself about issues that impact on sexually diverse students.
- Reflect on your own verbal and non-verbal signals you communicate about your level of acceptance and affirmation of sexually diverse people. The teacher's self evaluation of non-biased behaviour checklist is one way of identifying hidden biases teaching staff may hold in relation to people who identify as sexually diverse people and their issues.
- Do not expect students who identify as sexually diverse to speak as representatives of the sexually diverse community.
Words and language
The following list of words aims to provide a starting point for a developed understanding of some commonly used terms related to sexual diversity and gender identity. There are sensitivities and political issues associated with the meanings of some terms both within and outside the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, intersex, queer and questioning (GLBTTIQQ) communities, so the list is not definitive.
Androgyny
Having an appearance that cannot easily be classified as male or female.
Assigned Female At Birth (AFAB)
A person who, due to their sex characteristics, was assigned female at birth. This may not match the persons gender.
Assigned Male At Birth (AMAB)
A person who, due to their sex characteristics, was assigned male at birth. This may not match the persons gender.
Bisexual
A person who is emotionally and/or sexually attracted to people of more than one sex (but not necessarily equally attracted to each).
Cisgender person
A person whose gender matches with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Closeted
Hiding one’s sexuality from others.
Coming out
The process through which a person comes to recognise and acknowledge their sexual orientation.
Cross Dresser
A person who dresses in the clothing of the opposite gender for a variety of reasons. Sometimes referred to as 'transvestite'. May or may not identify as transgender.
Fluid
Acknowledgement that sexual identity, attractions and behaviours are often fluid - shifting and changing over time and experience. The same is true for gender.
Gay
A person who is primarily emotionally and/or sexually attracted to a member of the same sex. The term is most commonly applied to men.
Gender Identity
Refers to whether a person identifies as male, female or intersex.
Heteronormative
The belief that heterosexuality is ‘normal’ and alternative sexualities are deviant.
Heterosexism
The belief that all people are and should be heterosexual and those alternative sexualities are unhealthy, unnatural and pose a threat to society.
Heterosexual
A person who is exclusively attracted to people of the opposite sex.
Homophobia
A fear and hatred of gay and lesbian people.
Homosexual
A clinical term used to define a person who is emotionally, physically, and/or sexually attracted to people of the same sex.
Intersex
A biological condition where a person is born with reproductive organs and/or sex chromosomes that are not exclusively male or female.
Lesbian
A woman who is primarily emotionally and/or sexually attracted to women.
Men who have sex with Men (MSM)
Men who engage in sexual activity with other men but do not necessarily identify as gay.
Outed
Having one’s sexual orientation made public against one’s will.
Pansexual (from the Greek 'Pan' meaning 'all') / Omnisexual (from the Latin 'Omnis' meaning 'all')
Recognising the potential of sexual attraction to all people, regardless of gender or sexuality (it is intended to negate the idea of two genders).
Queer
A reclaimed term that includes all those outside of the societal heterosexual norm.
Questioning
A term to describe those unsure of their sexual orientation/gender identity and/or asking questions about sexuality and gender.
Same-sex attraction
Attraction towards people of one’s own gender. A less ‘loaded’ description than gay, bisexual or lesbian.
Sexual orientation
An enduring attraction to another person of the same and/or opposite sex.
Sexual preference
A conscious recognition of what a person likes or prefers to do sexually.
Sexuality
The term can mean actual sexual experience, sexual desire or self-identity. The three are not necessarily consistent with each other.
For example, a person’s sexual behaviour may not necessarily represent their sexual orientation.
Straight
A colloquial term used to describe people who are heterosexual.
Transgender
Refers to some one whose identity or behaviour falls outside stereotypical gender norms. Crossing of gender not sex.
Transsexual
A person who is biologically a member of one sex and identifies as a member of the other sex. (Some transsexual people choose to identify as transgender while others do not).
Transman
Female to male transgendered or transsexual persons.
Transwoman
Male to female transgendered or transsexual person.
Women who have Sex with Women (WSW)
Women who engage in sexual activity with other women but who do not necessarily self-identify as lesbians.
Words mean different things to different people. Some are acceptable and others are considered offensive and derogatory. In recent years, some people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, intersex or transsexual have reclaimed words to describe their identity that could be considered offensive by others. For example, the term 'queer' can be used as a term inclusive of all those who experience oppression on the basis of their sex, sexual practices, sexuality or gender identity or it can mean weird, odd, or strange.
Other terms that may or may not be regarded as derogatory, depending on who uses them and in what context include:
- Dyke: Lesbian
- Faggot: Gay man
- Homo: Gay or lesbian person
- Lemon: Lesbian
- Leso: Lesbian
- Poofter: Gay man
- Tranny: Transgendered or transsexual person
As a general rule, those who do not claim the identity themselves should not use these terms. Statements such as “that’s so gay” are also demeaning to people who identify as gay and are best avoided. Challenging homophobic jokes and derogatory comments by speaking up and naming them for what they are also goes some way into creating an environment inclusive of sexual diversity.
Historically, the term 'homosexual' was associated with deviance, criminal behaviour and mental illness. It is therefore preferable, when referring to specific groups, to use terms such as 'lesbian' or 'gay man' rather than the term 'homosexual'.
When referring to 'transsexual' or 'transgendered' people, use the pronoun which represents the gender expressed by the person in question (i.e. him/his or her/she).
Avoid words and language that perpetuate negative stereotypes about diverse sexual identities
Using inclusive language is an important part of creating an environment that recognises and affirms sexual and gender diversity. Language that reinforces the assumption that all personal relationships are exclusively heterosexual denies the lived realities of same-sex couples and is best avoided. For example, where the sexual identity or marital status of a person is unknown, use the term 'partner' instead of 'husband' or 'wife'. It is also important to use language which is inclusive of gender diversity. For example, always using someones preferred name, and asking what pronouns someone uses if you are unsure.
Affirming sexual and gender diversity also requires challenging heteronormative and cisgendered assumptions (either intentional or unintentional) in both the teaching context and work environment. Challenge heteronormative assumptions in a respectful manner.
Educational resources
Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS)
An independent research unit within the Health Science Faculty at La Trobe University which encourages and fosters research into all aspects of homosexuality, sexual attitudes and behaviours, gender and any issues related to or of relevance to the lesbian and gay community.
Gaylawnet
Provides general information, news and resources concerning law as it affects the global gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual and intersex community.
Health in Difference 5 Conference Proceedings (Gay and Lesbian Health Victoria)
Conference proceedings from the National GLBTI Health Conference hosted by ARCSHS held in January 2005.
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission: Gaymen & Lesbians
Provides information on issues impacting on gay and lesbian people in Australia.
Mapping Homophobia in Australia (M Flood & C Hamilton (2005))
This study identifies and examines the extent of homophobia in Australia using self-completion interviews with 24,718 respondents aged 14 years and over.
Not Yet Equal: Report of the VGLRL Same Sex Relationships Survey (R McNair, N Thomacos(2005))
A report documenting the experiences of people in same-sex relationships within the GLBTTIQQ communities in Victoria. Highlights areas in which same-sex couples have yet to reach full social inclusion.
Rainbow Report: Perspectives on Sexuality at The University of Western Australia (2002)
A report on the attitudes held by students at the University of Western Australia towards GLBTI people.
The Rainbow Owl
Offering a wide-range of resources to support transgender and gender-diverse young people and children. Created as part of a broader project by Flinders researchers, Clare Bartholomaeus and Damien Riggs, this site offers a broad variety of information for teachers, parents and family members, mental health professionals, and young people themselves, including research, videos, books and useful links elsewhere on the web.
Straight Talk about Queer Issues (A Goody & J De Vries (2001))
This paper explores the climate for GLBTI people in the workplace and describes two projects that aim to make the University of Western Australia a more positive work and study experience for GLBT people.
Writing Themselves in Again 6 Years On (ARCSHS)
The 2nd National Report on the sexual health and well being of same-sex attracted young people in Australia.
(Higher degree thesis or peer reviewed publications)
Naming the Unmentionable: Lesbian Domestic Violence
Ms Jan Thompson (1997)
MA Thesis (unpublished - available Adelaide University Library)
Pronouncing the Silent B (in GLBTTIQ)
Dr Mary Heath (2005)
Gay and Lesbian Issues and Psychology Review Vol 1 No 3 (1)
Intersex Children and Genital Surgery, Honours Thesis
Mr Paul Marks (2000)
(unpublished - available Flinders University Library)
Lesbian zest: tips on how to survive and flourish and Thriving as a bisexual or queer woman: tips on how to flourish.
Dr Ea Mulligan and Dr Mary Heath (2007)
Findings from an interview-based research project investigating bi-sexual and lesbian women's strategies for achieving well-being initially focussing on welfare and community participation.
- Lesbian zest: tips on how to survive and flourish
- Thriving as a bisexual or queer woman: tips on how to flourish
If you are an academic staff member at Flinders and have published material on sexual and gender identities or have written a thesis in this area, please let us know if you would like it placed here by sending an email to equal.opportunity@flinders.edu.au.
Dr Mary Heath
Director of Law/ Associate Dean (Students)
- Homophobic hate crimes
- The well-being of bi-sexual and lesbian women
Mr Paul Marks
Director of Legal Studies
- Transsexual jurisprudence
- Queer Theory
- Same-Sex Marriage
- The Medical Response to Children with Intersex Conditions.
- Dr Shannon Dowling (Australian Studies lecturer)
Dr Damien Riggs
School of Social Work
- Heteronormativity and the Health Sciences
- LGBT Mental Health
- LGBT Parenting and Families
- Foster Care and Lesbians and Gay Men
Sexual identities
If you are an academic staff member at Flinders and available to guest lecture on sexual and gender identities, please let us know sending an email to equal.opportunity@flinders.edu.au.
Information, resources and support
ALLY Network
A network of Flinders staff and students who understand and are familiar with sexuality issues. Members on the ALLY Network provide information and support to people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, intersex and questioning queer and to people wanting to know more about these issues.
Queer Officer: Student Council
The sexuality officer supports and promotes sexual diversity on campus by providing information in regards to sexuality issues and acts as an advocate for students experiencing harassment or discrimination on the basis of their sexuality and/or gender identity. The Queer Officer can be contacted by email on queer.officer@flinders.edu.au.
Queer Society
Queer Society is run through Clubs and Societies and provides queer students with social activities in an open and safe environment. Examples of events organised by Queer Society include queer bowling, movie nights, and inter-uni social nights.
Queer Space
Queer space is an autonomous space for queer identifying students on campus. It is located on level one in the Hub and provides a safe and friendly place for all queer students to be themselves, relax and feel safe. Queer space is open weekdays 9am-5pm and has a range of facilities including a computer with word processing and internet capabilities, an internal phone, a microwave, tea and coffee and a fridge.
Health, Counselling and Disability Service
A free and confidential counselling service for Flinders' students which is LGBTIQ+ friendly.
Equal Opportunity and Diversity
Flinders University has in place grievance procedures for complaints of harassment and discrimination on the basis of sexuality. If you feel that you have been harassed or discriminated against, contact an Equal Opportunity Contact Officer.
Bfriend
A free and confidential service of Uniting Care Wesley Adelaide providing support to men and women of all ages who are newly identifying as being same sex attracted or people that are questioning their gender identity.
Gay and Lesbian Immigration Task Force SA Inc
Support group for LGBTIQ+ people with immigration problems especially regarding partner immigration to Australia.
MensLine Australia
Provides counselling support by telephone or online.
Southern Women’s Community Health Centre
This regional women’s health service of the Noarlunga Health Services provides a comprehensive support service for lesbian, bisexual and transgender women. Telephone: 8444 0700.
Parents Supporting Parents and Friends of Lesbian and Gays (PSPFlag SA)
A South Australian based support group for parents and their sons and daughters who are gay, lesbian or bisexual.
SA Transsexual Support
Support group for transsexual people who have or are about to permanently change their gender roles. Also provides trans information for the community.
Shine SA
A non-government organisation providing a range of services on sexual health to the South Australian community. It is a GLBTTIQQ friendly organisation with healthcare teams based at Morphett Vale, Smithfield and Kensington.
Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) Support Group
A peer support, information and advocacy group for people affected by AIS and/or related intersex conditions and their families.
Australian Bi Sexual Network
A national network for bisexual women, bi transgenders, bisexual men, partners and friends of Bi people and bi-friendly groups and services.
Deaf Queer Resource Centre
A national non-profit resource and information centre for, by and about the deaf lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transexual, intersex and questioning communities.
DocLIST
A free service listing health professionals recommended by lesbian and bisexual women (run by the Australian Lesbian Medical Association).
FTM Australia Network
An Australian based network providing contact, support and up to date information to men identified female at birth, their partners, family, supporters and service providers.
Intersex Human Rights Australia
An organisation seeking to improve the standards of living of people with intersex conditions.
LOTL
Australian-based media development and events company producing lesbian lifestyle magazine.
Sydney Star Observer
A Sydney-based weekly gay and lesbian community newspaper.
Feast
Adelaide’s annual LGBTIQ+ arts festival held in October/November each year.
Pride Week
An annual festival of events celebrating, empowering and supporting diverse sexual and gender identities. For further information, contact the Queer Officer, at queer.officer@flinders.edu.au.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
An annual parade and pride festival held each year in Sydney.
Queer Screen
A non-profit community organisation whose main aim is to celebrate and promote Australian and International queer screen.
Team Adelaide Inc
Promotes gay and lesbian sport in South Australia. Provides tennis, tenpin bowling, squash, movie nights, annual cabaret and co-ordinate teams for Gay Games and Australian Gaymes.
Equality Campaign
Supporting LGBTIQ+ rights
These posters were produced by members of the Flinders University Community to raise awareness of sexual diversity that exists on campus.
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