Navigating AOD services as an LGBTQIA+ person

IDAHOBIT Day (May 17) is a powerful reminder that LGBTQIA+ people deserve safety, respect, and support in every space — including when accessing alcohol and other drug (AOD) services.

Many LGBTQIA+ people face higher rates of AOD use, linked to the impacts of stigma, discrimination, and minority stress. Finding inclusive support can be life-changing — but it’s not always easy. Some people have experienced being misgendered, judged, or feeling invisible when seeking help.

If you're reaching out for support around your substance use, here are some practical steps you can take to advocate for yourself:

1. Know your rights

You have the right to access services free from discrimination based on your sexuality, gender identity, or HIV status. Health services are legally required to provide culturally safe, non-judgmental care.

2. Ask questions

It’s okay to ask providers if they have experience working with LGBTQIA+ clients. You might also ask about harm minimisation approaches if you're not aiming for complete abstinence.

3. Bring a support person, or have them with you when you call in

If you feel nervous, having a trusted friend, partner, or advocate with you can make a huge difference – they can help reinforce your needs and offer emotional backup.

4. Correct pronouns and language

If someone uses the wrong pronoun or name, you are entitled to correct them – and it should be taken seriously and respectfully. Take a look at the LGBTIQ+ Health Australia Genders, bodies and relationships passport as a tool to support clear communication about your needs. 

5. Trust your instincts

If a service doesn’t feel welcoming or respectful, it's okay to seek out other options. Inclusive services are out there — and you deserve support that sees and respects you.
 

Helpful support services for LGBTQIA+ communities

If you’re seeking support, check out these services!

National counselling and referrals

• Counselling Online (free, confidential support for AOD concerns, national)
• QLife (national LGBTQIA+ peer support)

National AOD peer support groups

• SMART Recovery (filter the audience to LGBTIQ+ or Trans only)
• Alcoholics Anonymous LGBTQ+ meetings
• Narcotics Anonymous Australia meetings (filter to LGBTQI in the formats dropdown menu)

ACT

• Meridian ACT: Peer-led health, wellbeing and AOD harm reduction services, with a focus on LGBTQIA+ people and people living with HIV.

NSW

• ACON: LGBTQIA+ health and wellbeing organisation with a range of specialised AOD services

NT

• NTAHC: Peer-led health, wellbeing and harm reduction service with specialised services for LGBTQIA+ people, sex workers, and people living with HIV.

QLD

• The Queensland Council for LGBTI Health (QC): A community-driven health service for LGBTIQ+ people, Sistergirls and Brotherboys.

SA

• Thorne Harbour Health SA LGBTQIA+ health and wellbeing support with a range of specialised AOD services

TAS

• Working It Out’s Signpost: A directory of inclusive support services curated by Tasmania’s gender, sexuality and intersex support, education and advocacy service.

VIC

• Merri Health: LGBTIQA+ alcohol and drugs counselling and support
• Thorne Harbour Health: LGBTQIA+ health and wellbeing support with a range of specialised AOD services
• Rainbow Door a free specialist LGBTIQA+ peer support helpline operated by Switchboard, a peer-driven support service for LGBTIQA+ people.

WA

• WAAC: A community-led organisation offering a wide-range of health and support services for LGBTQIA+ people, people living with HIV, and injecting drug users. Offers specialist harm reduction and counselling services.

We’re here for you

If you’d like to chat now, our team is always here for you — our online chat is free, confidential, 24/7. Our non-judgmental counsellors can talk through any problems related to substance use, whether you are interested in quitting, cutting down, looking for harm minimisation strategies, or just want to talk about what is going on with yourself or a loved one. 

Chat to us online