Australia will have a new multi-discliplinary health clinic opening soon, to better support trans and gender diverse people in the community.
The state government announced late on Wednesday Ballarat Community Health will be part of an Australian-first Trans and Gender Diverse Health Care Initiative.
BCH will help deliver primary care and gender affirmation services, including GP services, sexual health, alcohol and other drug services, and counselling, according to the government's press release.
"Our health services must be welcoming, safe and respectful places for everyone," state Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said.
"Trans and gender diverse Victorians deserve equal healthcare."
The initiative is part of a $3.4 million package delivered in the 2018-19 Victorian Budget to expand health service capacity for trans and gender diverse people. It also includes $1 million for a peer support program delivered in partnership with Transgender Victoria.
Trans and gender diverse people often experience poorer health because of the discrimination they face in their everyday lives. Tragically, almost 50 per cent of trans and gender diverse youth have attempted suicide.
Critical to the success of this initiative is the inclusion and participation of trans and gender diverse people in the design, development, implementation and evaluation of the services being delivered.
This initiative will make sure trans and gender diverse people - and their families - have access to the appropriate, affirming healthcare and support they need, when they need it.
