Curtin University expresses its solidarity with and support of all trans, gender diverse and intersex people in our communities and on our campuses and believes that everyone, regardless of their race, gender or gender identity are deserving of love, respect, understanding and dignity.
Several hundred thousand Australians identify in a gender that does not match the sex that was assigned to them at birth. Trans and gender diverse people form an important part of our Australian community.
Despite this, trans and gender diverse people experience prejudice and discrimination on a daily basis, and in all walks of life. They face difficulty living the sorts of lives other Australians take for granted. Their health and wellbeing suffers greatly. National research projects, some with the participation of Curtin University researchers, have thrown a light on these experiences, reporting that trans and gender diverse people experience high levels of depression, anxiety and stress, and that they are at risk of self-harm and suicidal behaviour.
Curtin University values respect, diversity, and inclusion in all we do, and has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of prejudice, vilification or discrimination. We understand that comments such as those made recently in the media can only serve to exacerbate the challenges trans, gender diverse and intersex people face throughout their lives. Curtin is committed to providing support for any of our students or staff impacted in this way through our counselling and wellness services. We are also committed to raising awareness through our education programs and by our ongoing research.
