Terminology and language can impact on a person’s identity, self-worth and inherent dignity. The use of inclusive and acceptable terminology empowers individuals and enables visibility of important issues. Terminology in this area is at times contested and changing and there is not often clear consensus on what is appropriate terminology. While recognising these limitations, it is important to provide clarification around some of the terminology.
There are many ways to describe sexuality and gender. Many of these are captured by the term LGBTIQA+. This stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, and Asexual/Aromantic.
+ – The plus sign acknowledges there are other diverse sexual orientations and gender identities that fall outside of LGBTQIA definitions, especially of other cultural identities and roles.
For more information on sexual orientations, gender identities, and their definitions, check out these websites:
headspace - Understanding Sexuality
headspace - What is Gender Identity?
Victorian Government’s LGBTI Inclusive Language Guide
Minus18
Trans Hub
*Cisgender refers to someone whose gender identity aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth.