More than one in 10 Australian high school students identify as gay, bisexual, pansexual, or asexual, according to a recent survey conducted across the nation. This survey, conducted between 2019 and 2021, included 6,388 Year 8 students, with results showing that 12 per cent of teens reported a range of sexual orientations, and 3.3 per cent identified as gender-diverse.
Jennifer Marino, senior research fellow at the University of Sydney and lead author of the report, highlighted the findings as evidence of an “urgent need” for initiatives that reduce stigma, discrimination, and violence directed at LGBTQIA+ youth.
Among those surveyed, 17.7 per cent indicated they had a mental health diagnosis. Generalised anxiety disorder was the most prevalent, affecting 7.8 per cent of respondents, followed by ADHD (6.2 per cent) and social anxiety disorder (six per cent).
“Our observations support recommendations for child health policies that promote inclusion and support of diverse gender identities and sexualities from a young age to mitigate the harmful impacts of minority stress and internalised transphobia and homophobia,” Marino explained.
She added, “Future research involving younger adolescents should focus on longitudinal and population-based studies that include items addressing sexuality and gender identities. Continued qualitative research with communities is essential to ensure these items represent the lived experiences of sexuality and gender diversity.”
