Conference to focus on rural LGBTI
Professionals in health, psychology and law will take part in a conference about the needs of rural and regional LGBTI communities next month.
Called Gender and Sexuality in Rural and Regional Australia, the forum is part of the inaugural CoastOut community education conference at Southern Cross University on Friday, October 28.
Australian family law expert Heather McKinnon, from Slater & Gordon Coffs Harbour, will speak at the conference about the major issues of acceptance and recognition facing gay, lesbian and transgender people in regional Australia.
McKinnon said the conference is one of the first of its kind in regional Australia.
“Gay, lesbians and transgender people in regional Australia face challenges and difficulties that are, for the most part, not issues in the major metropolitan centres,” she said.
“Young gay males are overrepresented in suicide statistics in regional areas. It is critical that community leaders speak out to prevent this tragedy.”
The conference is expected to look closely at issues such as isolation, best health practice and law reform which continue to be major concerns for gay people living in regional centres.
“What we are hoping to achieve is a shift in the way people living in regional centres look at these issues and to create a greater understanding of gender and sexuality,” McKinnon said.
Other speakers at the event include LGBT youth educator Daniel Witthaus and gay rights advocate Rodney Croome (pictured).
INFO: www.coastout.com.au
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It is very disappointing that this conference does not include any specific focus or speaker on GLBTI aged care issue which are on the short list of priorities for our organisations and are finally recognised as deserving of urgent action by our community, to address ageism amongst ourselves, reduce the fear and prejudice suffered by our elders, and provide culturally sensitive services and advocacy. Our elders are committing suicide, retreating into the closet, and experiencing serious isolation. They are trans, live in regional areas and are impacted by health practice and law reform. How can they not be highlighted on this program. Dr Jo Harrison