LGBTQIA+ community

LGBTQIA+ community

Institute employees at Midsumma Pride March
WEHI is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all staff and students can flourish in a safe, supportive environment.
We welcome people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and more (LGBTQIA+).

Focusing on inclusion to capitalise on diversity is a key pillar of our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy. A program of initiatives and activities to celebrate our LGBTQIA+ community, form part of this commitment.

WE-Pride

WE-Pride is our LGBTQIA+ and ally network, created and led by staff and students from across the Institute. WE-Pride is inclusive of all employees and anyone is welcome to join. 

WE-Pride actively supports LGBTQIA+ people in our Institute and promotes an inclusive culture through: 

  • Organising social activities 
  • Hosting special events such as Wear it Purple Day and Transgender Awareness Week 
  • Engaging with the wider Institute community, for example with the short film ‘Queeries’,  to raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues
  • Organising WEHI's participation at public events, such as the Midsumma Pride March 
  • Advising the Institute on LGBTQIA+ policies and procedures

Email the WE-Pride coordinators for further information. 

 

Increasing LGBTQIA+ visibility in the sector

A new network, Queers In Science, has been established with the founding support of WEHI and nearby research organisations.

This network aims to increase support and visibility for LGBTQIA+ people working in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine). 

WEHI is also proud to host Queers in Science and support its initiatives. 

 

Stronger through inclusion

WEHI director Professor Doug Hilton explains why he is committed to building an inclusive workplace. 

 

 

Further information

Professor Anne Voss looks at film with student Helen McRae

We aim to maximise opportunities for research discoveries. To do this we must use our entire talent pool.

Painting of a hand by artist Robert Young

WEHI takes a holistic approach to reconciliation, striving to embed our commitment across all aspects of institute life and our place in the community.

Thumbnail from Queeries video

Our LGBTQIA+ network invited staff and students to ask their questions about gender and sexuality, no matter how awkward. The result was 'Queeries'!