WHAT'S ON

Victoria has moved ahead with new 'Hate Speech' protections that, for the first time, clearly cover LGBTIQ+ communities, with the changes due to be fully in force by June 2026. The reforms expand anti‑vilification laws beyond race and religion, introduce new criminal offences for serious hate conduct, and strengthen civil options for people targeted because of who they are or who they love.

LGBTIQ+ groups are calling on the federal government to include greater protections for their communities in its proposed overhaul of hate speech legislation. 

Kazakhstan follows Russia in banning ‘LGBTQ propaganda’ While the Kazakhstan government says being LGBTQ+ isn’t illegal, the new LGBTQ+ 'propaganda'  raises serious concerns about censorship, visibility, and the silencing of queer voices.

Anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes in California are reaching alarming levels, especially against trans and nonbinary individuals. With a shocking 102 reported anti-trans incidents last year and a staggering 275% increase in crimes against nonbinary people, it’s clear that our communities need stronger protections and support.

In a significant move, the US Supreme Court has upheld the landmark Obergefell v Hodges ruling, rejecting a petition from Kim Davis that sought to challenge marriage equality in the USA.

Sydney’s beloved photographer, performer, and cultural storyteller, William Yang has been awarded the ACON President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement at the 2025 Honour Awards, recognising his extraordinary contributions to the arts, photography, and visibility of LGBTQI+ communities across Australia.

Transgender Americans are facing an alarming wave of vitriol and violence, as rightwing politicians, MAGA and online extremists ramp up their attacks, joined by billionaire Elon Musk, who joins the fray, leading conspiratorial campaigns targeting queer voices, most recently, a bid to “cancel” Netflix over its gender-diverse and queer content.

After 43 years as a cornerstone of Sydney’s queer community, The Bookshop Darlinghurst will close its doors for the final time on Christmas Eve 2025, marking the end of an era for LGBTQIA+ literature, connection, and culture.

The Tasmanian parliament are currently considering two bills that will cement Tasmania as the Rainbow Isleand compensate people for historical LGBTQIA+ convictions. Could others follow suit?