Supporting LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Care for Culturally Diverse Young People
22 Jun 2026
Research by Western Sydney University medical student Swetha Kumar highlights several pressures affecting these young people, including racism within some LGBTQIA+ spaces, fear of rejection from family or cultural communities, language barriers, settlement stress, and difficulty navigating unfamiliar health systems.
The research also notes that some young people may view general practice as closely connected to their family or community, which can increase concerns about privacy, judgement, and confidentiality.
Healthcare providers are encouraged to build trust by allowing young people to lead conversations, using open-ended questions, avoiding assumptions, and using inclusive LGBTQIA+ language in a natural and respectful way. Clinicians are also advised not to pressure patients into disclosure, as some may rely on privacy for their safety, housing, or relationships.
Clear explanations of confidentiality, including its limits, are important. GPs are also encouraged to check which names and pronouns are safe to use in different settings, offer longer consultations when needed, and provide access to professional interpreters. Culturally safe and LGBTQIA+-affirming referral options can further support patient wellbeing.
LGBTQIA+ inclusive care resources
General practices can access a range of resources to strengthen culturally safe and inclusive care, including:
- GPSA Practical Guide to LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Care in General Practice
- Rainbow Health Australia
- Transhub
- Inclusive communication guidance for LGBTIQA+ clients
- Culturally and linguistically diverse communication resources
- Research on migrant and refugee youth engagement with sexual and reproductive healthcare in general practice
- Medical curriculum guide for LGBTQIASB+ health
- Directory of LGBTQIA+ multicultural community groups and services
Supporting LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Care for Culturally Diverse Young People
Source: Western Sydney University, GPSA, Rainbow Health Australia