Curtin University has released Trans Support, a publication that provides information and support to staff and students undergoing gender transition.
Trans Support helps address the needs and issues that arise when a person elects to undertake gender transition while at University.
Curtin Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education Professor Jill Downie said the guide was one way Curtin was leading the LGBTI charge in the higher education space.
“Curtin is the second university to publicly pledge support for marriage equality and we’ve also received numerous Pride in Diversity awards over the years,” Professor Downie said.
“We hope the release of Trans Support will encourage more universities to consider their stance on gender transition and develop their own guides and support services.”
Professor Downie said the significance of the guide was not lost on those who had suffered, with its launch coinciding with the Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20.
“The information within the publication may not seem important to people who do not identify as LGBTI, but for those who choose to, or have children who do, it certainly makes a difference,” Professor Downie said.
“We have an increasing number of students who are transitioning and for potential students it may be a relief to know we have a physician on campus who is well-educated and highly-regarded in the trans community.”
Trans Support is designed to minimise confusion and uncertainty around gender transition and is aimed at those considering and undertaking transition, their carers and support network, and Curtin staff.
In addition to the guide, Curtin has also updated its online systems to ensure students who do not identify as male or female are not required to enter a gender, and can be identified as Mx, rather than the traditional Mr or Ms.
For more information on Curtin’s commitment to sexual and gender diversity and Trans Support visit, http://life.curtin.edu.au/health-and-wellbeing/sexuality-and-gender-diversity.htm
