Australian Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is facing criticism after allegations surfaced that his team removed LGBTQIA+ symbols from a headspace mental health centre in Melbourne’s western suburbs prior to a media event on Wednesday.
An online source claimed that Dutton’s team arrived at headspace Melton shortly before his scheduled appearance and proceeded to “remove all queer flags and symbols” from the space. It’s also alleged he declined to speak in front of a queer-themed artwork, instead opting to be photographed beside underwater-themed decorations.
In a statement to Star Observer, a headspace spokesperson confirmed that several items — including a tall water jug and some flags — were cleared from a table by Dutton’s team before his media appearance. However, they clarified that no posters, artworks or large standing flags were removed, nor was any such request made.
Photographs on the headspace Melton website show a variety of pride-related materials typically present in the facility, including rainbow and transgender flags at the front desk, as well as two Aboriginal flags. Dutton has previously refused to stand in front of Aboriginal flags, though it remains unclear when the image was taken.
Headspace is known for its active support of LGBTQIA+ youth, offering tailored services and inclusive programming. The Melton Centre has participated in key events on the LGBTQIA+ calendar, such as IDAHOBIT and Trans Day of Visibility. Currently, it hosts a monthly music-listening group for trans and gender diverse people aged 16–25.
During his visit, Dutton was joined by renowned psychiatrist Professor Pat McGorry, former Australian of the Year and a key figure in youth mental health. McGorry, who developed the headspace model in the early 2000s, has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth. In 2016, he warned that the marriage equality plebiscite could negatively impact queer young people’s wellbeing. He was also a recent signatory to an Equality Australia letter urging the Queensland Government to reverse its ban on hormone therapy for trans and gender diverse youth.
Dutton’s appearance at Headspace coincided with his announcement of a $6.2 million Coalition pledge to upgrade the Melton facility if elected. The commitment forms part of a broader $400 million plan to enhance youth mental health services nationally.
“As a former Health Minister who expanded headspace’s activities, I know the critical role that headspace plays for young Australians and their families who may be facing mental health challenges,” Dutton said. “This important investment builds on the Coalition’s proud record of strengthening the headspace network.”
Despite the funding commitment, Dutton continues to draw criticism for his record on LGBTQIA+ issues. He has consistently voted against key reforms supporting the queer community and has positioned himself as a staunch critic of “woke” culture in Australian education.
“I support young Australians being able to think freely, being able to assess what’s before them and not being told and indoctrinated with something that is the agenda of others,” he said earlier this week.
The backlash follows closely on the heels of another controversy last month, when Dutton used the term “limp-wrist” — a slur historically used against gay men — while commenting on Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s response to China.
