On International Trans Day of Visibility, the Australian Human Rights Commission recognises and affirms the rights, dignity, and contributions of trans and gender diverse people.
"Visibility is a powerful force-it challenges stigma, fosters greater understanding, and reminds us that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued," says Dr Anna Cody, Australia's Sex Discrimination Commissioner.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that around 178,900 Australians aged 16 years and over identify as trans or gender diverse. Of these, 102,600 are under the age of 35. These numbers reinforce what we have always known - trans and gender diverse people are an integral part of our communities, deserving of respect, safety, and inclusion.
"Accepting and celebrating trans and gender diverse people benefits all of us," says Dr Cody. "It helps us to be free of restrictions that gender roles can create and the harm that come from them. Everyone enjoys healthy respectful relationships when they are free from harmful gender stereotypes."
Trans and gender diverse people have always existed. Many cultures worldwide have long recognised and respected gender-diverse identities, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Brotherboys and Sistergirls, Hijras of South Asia; the Pasifika identities of māhū, vakasalewalewa, palopa, fa'afafine, akava'ine, fakaleiti/leiti, and fakafifine; Filipino Baklâ; Two-Spirit people from First Nations communities in North America; the Calalai, Calabai, and the Bissu of Sulawesi, Indonesia. These identities are not interchangeable with transgender, but they remind us that gender diversity is not new-it is an enduring part of human history.
"At the Commission, we will continue to stand alongside trans and gender diverse Australians, ensuring their rights are upheld, their voices are heard, and their visibility leads to greater acceptance and equality," says Dr Cody.
"Everyone deserves to live with dignity and free from discrimination."
