Same Sex Attracted
Gay? Lesbian? Unsure?
Sexuality, like many things in life, develops over time. Don't worry if you aren't sure, you don’t have to label yourself today or ever – the choice is yours. Being young is a time of figuring out what works for you. Some people are attracted to boys, some to girls, and some to both. Being attracted to someone of the same sex can be confusing and challenging and some people around you may find this hard to accept. The services below might be able to help you talk through these issues, find acceptance, ‘come out’ to the people around you, and connect you with other gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex or questioning people.
Gay and Lesbian Switchboard
What: Trained Gay and Lesbian telephone counselling
When: Every night, 6pm – 10pm except Wednesday nights from 2pm – 10pm
Phone: 9827 8544
Action Centre for Young People
What: Sexual Health Clinic, Contraception, STI and HIV testing, pregnancy testing, sexuality and gender issues, pregnancy counselling
Where: Level 1, 94 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
Hours: Mon to Fri 12noon-5pm
Phone: 1800 013 952
PFLAG Victoria
What: Parents, Families, Lesbians and Gays Victoria: A group of parents, families and friends of gay, lesbian and bisexual people who meet once a month and offer support and friendship to families, particularly parents, and also to members of the GLBTI (gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transsexual, intersex) community who may need support in coming out to their families and friends. Offers support through public education and advocacy to end discrimination and secure equal civil rights.
Phone: 9827 8408
Web: www.pflagvictoria.org.au
Knox Youth Services
What: Run a group for young people aged 14-18yrs old who are same sex attracted, bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender, questioning their sexuality or unsure. The group meets in a safe and supportive environment with fun activities, information and the opportunity to make new friends
Phone: 9298 8868
Further Help:
- Care Ring 136 169
- Kids Help Line 1800 55 1800
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre 9347 0244
- Maroondah Youth Services 9298 4373
Web:
www.also.org.au - Peak Victorian organisation for the gay and lesbian community
www.dogwomble.com - Queer youth web community
www.mogenic.com - Sydney-based online portal for same-sex attracted young people
www.fpv.org.au - Learning centre about sex and sexuality
www.cyh.com - Health information
www.minus18.org - Same-sex attracted news, events and resources
www.geocities.com/purblebusstop - Locally-produced magazine for same-sex attracted young people
www.reachout.com.au - Loads of interesting articles and factsheets