Trans @ School

About the Trans @ School resources

The Trans @ School resources were developed in partnership between the LGBTI Legal Service, Legal Aid Queensland, and the Queensland Human Rights Commission, with input from the Queensland Children’s Gender Service, young people, parents, and educators.

The resources provide guidance for:

• Students and their families – to navigate the complexities of affirming gender identity at school.
• Schools and educators – to help create safe, inclusive environments and support trans and gender-diverse students.

The resources are the foundation for understanding rights, responsibilities, and best practices in Queensland schools. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, we encourage you to download these resources for detailed information.

Information from the resources

For students and their families

Student rights at school

As a student in Queensland, you are protected by the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 and the Human Rights Act 2019 . These laws ensure that:

• You cannot be treated less favourably because of your gender identity, sexuality, or sex characteristics.
• You have the right to express your gender identity, including your name, pronouns, clothing, and hairstyle.
• You have the right to use facilities that align with your gender identity, such as bathrooms or change rooms.
• You have the right to privacy: your personal, medical, and social information must be kept confidential.

If you experience bullying, harassment, or discrimination, you can raise complaints with your school or escalate them to the Queensland Human Rights Commission.

Tips for expressing your gender at school

Navigating gender identity at school can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to make the process easier. Consider these steps:

• Communicate your needs: Work with a trusted teacher, guidance officer, or principal to create a plan that supports your identity.
• Plan ahead: Changes like updating your name on school records or accessing different facilities may take time, so start the conversation early.
• Find support: A trusted adult, friend, or youth support organisation can help you navigate the process.

Support for parents and carers

Parents and carers play a critical role in supporting trans and gender-diverse children. Affirmation and collaboration with schools can have a profound impact on a child’s wellbeing, mental health, and success.

What parents and carers can do:

• Educate yourself: Learn about trans and gender-diverse experiences to better understand your child.
• Seek support: If you feel overwhelmed or unsure, reach out to organisations that provide guidance and resources.
• Advocate for your child: Work with the school to ensure your child’s needs are met, including access to appropriate facilities, records, and support.

For educators

Creating inclusive school environments

Educators and school leadership teams have a responsibility to ensure that trans and gender-diverse students feel safe, supported, and included in all aspects of school life.

The Trans @ School guide for educators, informed by leading organisations and expert consultation, provides comprehensive advice on meeting this responsibility.

Key areas of focus for schools

• Names and pronouns: Always use the correct names and pronouns for trans and gender-diverse students. Misgendering or calling a trans, gender diverse or non-binary person by their birth or former name (referred to as deadnaming) can be distressing and may constitute discrimination under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991.
• Facilities and uniforms: Ensure students have access to toilets, change rooms, and uniforms that align with their gender identity. Gender-neutral options should also be available.
• Privacy and confidentiality: Schools must respect students’ privacy. Information about a student’s gender identity should only be shared with staff on a need-to-know basis.
• Staff training: Equip all staff with knowledge and understanding of LGBTQIA+SB issues, discrimination, and inclusive practices to foster a positive school culture.

Managing challenges and promoting inclusion

• Address concerns respectfully: Concerns raised by students, parents, or staff should be handled with care, but schools have a duty to uphold the rights of LGBTQI+ SB students.
• Anti-bullying policies: Implement and enforce clear policies against bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Students must feel safe and supported to fully participate in school life.
• Celebrate diversity: Events like Wear it Purple Day and IDAHOBIT Day are valuable opportunities to promote inclusion and show support for LGBTQIA+SB students.

Making a complaint

If issues arise at school that cannot be resolved through discussions with school staff, both students and educators can seek assistance.

Steps to address concerns

1. Talk to the school: Raise your concerns with a teacher, principal, or school counsellor.
2. File a formal complaint: If the issue remains unresolved, provide a written complaint to the school outlining your concerns and the desired resolution.
3. Escalate the issue:
• For state schools: Make a complaint to the Queensland Human Rights Commission. Find out more about making a complaint.
• For private schools: Complaints can also be made to the Australian Human Rights Commission under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984.

Why getting it right matters

Creating an inclusive school culture benefits everyone. When LGBTQIA+SB students feel safe and supported, they can focus on their education and personal growth. Inclusive environments also promote positive relationships and emotional development for all students.