Parenting is a tough gig. And while they say it takes a village to raise a child, I would argue that it actually takes a village to raise a parent. So don’t do it alone. Find others who are in the same boat, or further down the creek than you. Connect with people you can trust. There are several organisations and resources in Victoria that provide support for LGBTQIA+ families, parents, and children:
Rainbow Families Australia: A national charity supporting LGBTQ+ parents and their families through community events, parenting classes, local family catch-ups, and advocacy.
Switchboard Victoria – Rainbow Families Program: Offers peer support, social events, online groups, and advocacy for LGBTIQA+ parents, carers, and their families. ([][2])
Rainbow Families Victoria: A volunteer community organisation promoting equality for rainbow families, providing information, referrals, and peer support.
Rural Rainbows: Rural Rainbows consists of LGBTIQ+ community members, their allies and advocates, service providers and community groups across Victorian North Central Region, including Loddon Shire Council, Buloke Shire Council, Northern Grampians Shire Council.
Rainbow Playgroups: Playgroups aren’t just for the kiddos. It’s where we can find our tribe, our supports and useful links and information from others in similar situations and locations.
City of Melbourne – Rainbow Playgroups
Raising Children Network – LGBTIQ+ Families
Rainbow Door – Switchboard Victoria
Rainbow Parents Connect – Victorian Pride Centre
You could also have a look at your local council website to see if there is anything else in your neighbourhood. And don’t forget, during the Midsumma and Chill Out festivals, there are often many family friendly events and information available.
Deb Anthony is a clinical psychologist with a special interest in LGBTQIA+ healthcare, fertility and families. Deb is NOT a medical specialist. Deb provides the following information, based on general publicly available information to assist anyone hitting the web who wants more information. If you believe that you would benefit from exploring your fertility preservation or family planning options, have a look at the below, and contact your GP or any of the specialist services mentioned in this, and the following posts. Deb believes that the information provided is current and accurate t time of uploading, but may change at any time. Deb will not be monitoring updates to legislation, services or access requirements. You will need to do you own leg work to ensure you evaluate and access services and information relevant to your needs.
Deb does not endorse any specific service. The services listed here are commonly cited by colleagues, peers and clients. Deb does not have an experience, opinion or interest in any of the services linked. Deb provides this information simply to help people start navigating their family planning journey.
If you would like to unpack your thoughts and feelings on your current or future family planning journey, Deb is able to provide you with support in clinic (Watsonia) or telehealth.
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