A new campaign is calling on families to support, respect and celebrate LGBTIQ+ family members to ultimately prevent family violence.
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Figures show that six in 10 LGBTIQ+ people experience violence or rejection from family members, with parents or siblings being the most likely perpetrators.
Respect Victoria launched its campaign titled Pride, Respect, Equality earlier this month, highlighting stories from families in Victoria who have faced challenges, but chosen to love, respect and support each other.
No-one should experience violence for any reason, including their sexuality or gender identity, and we encourage all Victorians to really listen to the campaign messages.
- Wendy Sturgess, Child and Family Services Ballarat
Respect Victoria chief executive Tracey Gaudry said family violence against LGBTIQ+ people was driven by some of the same factors as violence in heterosexual families or relationships, including outdated attitudes towards gender.
She said it was also often driven by homophobia, biphobia, or transphobia and could be rejection from family, verbal or physical abuse, or parents restricting gender affirming medication or support.
"That's why we are asking Victorian families to support, respect and celebrate their LGBTIQ+ loved ones," Ms Gaudry said.
"While it can feel confusing and you don't need to have all the answers, the most important step you can take as a family member is to provide support and let your LGBTIQ+ relative know they are loved.
"This can ultimately prevent family violence from occurring."
Child and Family Services (Cafs) chief executive Wendy Sturgess said Cafs was a strong ally to the rainbow community and supported the campaign 'wholeheartedly'.
"No-one should experience violence for any reason, including their sexuality or gender identity, and we encourage all Victorians to really listen to the campaign messages," she said.
A LaTrobe University report found more participants of a LGBTIQ+ well-being study experienced high or very high psychological distress in regional cities or towns, compared to metropolitan areas.
Ms Gaudry said LGBTIQ+ people living in regional areas could face additional challenges, including limited access to local inclusive health and support services, social spaces, and peer support networks.
"In Ballarat, there are a number of health clinics available to trans and gender diverse people, which is a fantastic step, and we hope to see more of this in the future," she said.
The Respect Victoria campaign will run on metropolitan and regional television, radio, and press, as well as digital and social channels.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
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