Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and other sexuality, sex and gender diverse (LGBTI) Australians have poorer health outcomes than the rest of the population. This is not about sexual orientation, sex or gender identity as such, but rather to do with discrimination, exclusion and social isolation. It has a negative impact on mental and physical health, and is a barrier to health service access. The needs of LGBTI people are not being adequately addressed in policy, research and services.

The National LGBTI Health Alliance was established in 2007 by community organisations working to promote LGBTI health and wellbeing as a membership-based national peak body. We have over 100 members across Australia. This includes organisations in each State/Territory and individuals. The Alliance is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing for work in mental health and suicide prevention. Since October 2011 we have received a grant to assist with secretariat activities. To continue working in a range of wider areas (such as aged care, or health and human rights) contributions from our supporters are welcome, as they enable us to increase our work.

If you are considering a donation (regular through Give Now or one-off), please feel free to contact our Executive Director, Nicky Bath. Nicky can provide you with additional information about the work of the Alliance. nicky.bath@lgbtihealth.org.au or phone (02) 8568 1120.

How will the funds be used:

To strengthen the Alliance as a national voice for LGBTI health and wellbeing and to support our efforts to build the capacity of health services to work effectively for LGBTI people.

Key areas of expenditure for funds donated

• National advocacy to promote the health and wellbeing of LGBTI Australians
• General operations underpinning our work, eg enabling communication between members