LGBTIQ+ inclusive practice guide for homelessness and housing sectors in Australia

This national guide supports agencies across Australia’s housing and homelessness sectors to deliver safer, more inclusive and affirming services for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer or questioning (LGBTIQ+). It was developed in response to requests from the sector and clear research and practice evidence that LGBTIQ+ people face a higher risk of homelessness and have specific needs that services must address.

Applicable to services nationwide, the guide sets out practical principles that staff at all levels can use to embed inclusion in everyday work and drive broader systems and cultural change. It focuses on what organisations can do now—through policy, environment, workforce capability and service design—to create welcoming, respectful and person-centred support.

Designed for frontline workers, managers and decision-makers, the resource is also useful for LGBTIQ+ people who are, or may be, accessing housing or homelessness services. It explains key practice areas such as respectful communication, confidentiality, culturally safe environments, responding to discrimination and harassment, and effective referral and advocacy. Throughout, it emphasises intersectional realities, recognising that experiences and risks can be compounded for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, migrants and refugees, and young people.

By translating evidence and lived experience into clear, actionable steps, the guide helps agencies move beyond good intentions to consistent, accountable practice. The result is a practical framework for building services where every person is welcomed, respected and supported — and where inclusive practice becomes business as usual.