LGBTQIA+ travel in Australia
Everyone has the right to experience the joy of travel. Here’s what you need to know as an LGBTQIA+ traveller in Australia
Australia is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers thanks to its anti-discrimination laws, diverse population and welcoming culture.
LGBTQIA+ travellers should generally feel safe, supported and accepted anywhere in the country and shouldn't be worried about public displays of affection with a same-sex partner.
Is Australia safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?
Australia is considered a safe travel destination for LGBTQIA+ people, especially its major cities and tourist hotspots.
In Australia, there are no restrictions on same-sex relations. Similarly, there are no legal restrictions on the organisation of LGBTQIA+ events.
Violent crimes against LGBTQIA+ individuals are rare; however, like many destinations, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are a risk for all visitors. As with any destination, avoid excessive alcohol, be mindful of your belongings and meet in public places if using dating apps.
Gender-neutral bathrooms are often found, especially in large stadiums and are more common in large cities than rural areas.
Conservative attitudes may still be upheld in more remote towns, so be aware of that when travelling outside urban areas.
Check out the following websites for more LGBTQIA+-related information and advice:
- Equaldex
- ILGA
- Smartraveler (Australia)
- SafeTravel (New Zealand)
- US Dep of State (USA)
- FCDO (United Kingdom)
- Government of Canada
Australia has strict laws pertaining to the protection and safety of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Homosexuality and gay marriage are legal, while the non-binary gender is legally recognised.
Sexual orientation and gender-based discrimination is illegal throughout Australia.
The culture of LGBTQIA+ people is alive and thriving in Australia, with many Pride events, parades, festivals, gay-friendly pubs, restaurants, clubs and neighbourhoods across the country.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that around 4 per cent of the Australian population identifies as LGBTQIA+, with popular LGBTQIA+ neighbourhoods existing in many of Australia’s major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Travelling with us
We know safety is one of, if not the, top concerns for LGBTQIA+ folk. But when you travel with us, you can rest assured we’ve got your back.
Intrepid travellers span all ages and backgrounds, and regardless of local laws or attitudes, our leaders are committed to ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable. We don’t tolerate any form of discrimination, violence or harassment – either between travellers, with our partners or with local people.
Even in countries with limited LGBTQIA+ rights, you'll always be welcomed and supported by us.
Twin-share is the standard arrangement on our trips. We pair solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender listed on your passport. If you identify differently from the gender on your passport, please get in touch to discuss rooming options. If you’d like your own space, individual rooms are available on most trips for an additional cost.
Double beds are available in some destinations. If you’re travelling with a partner and would prefer a double, let us know and we'll do our best to arrange it for you.
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