Sexuality

Note: The HealthInfoNet acknowledges that the language around sexuality is evolving and have strived to be as inclusive as possible.

Sexuality is known as a person’s sexual attractions, behaviours, feelings and relationships [1][2][3]. It is very diverse and often unique to each person [2]. A person’s sexual identity is often how they choose to describe their sexuality [2]. There are many different variations of sexuality and terms to describe sexual identities, however some people also decide not to label their sexuality [2]. 

Some of the different types of sexual identities are:

• Heterosexual – where a person is sexually attracted to other people of the opposite sex.
• Homosexual – where a person is sexually attracted to other people of the same sex.
• Bisexual – where a person is sexually attracted to both males and females.
• Asexual – the absence of sexual attraction, or where a person experiences very little sexual attraction to others.
• Pansexual – where a person’s attraction to others is not based on their gender or biological sex, but rather their connection or personality.
• Queer – an overarching term which often refers to a broad range of sexualities and gender identities.
• Questioning – where a person is unsure of their sexuality and may be exploring it.
• Brotherboy – where an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person is classified as female when born but has a male spirit.
• Sistergirl – where an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person is classified as male when born but adopts the cultural role of a female [2][4][5].

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Sistergirl, Brotherboy and other non-binary sexual and gender identities (LGBTQI+SB) often belong to multiple intersecting minority populations which, unfortunately, means they are at a higher risk of poor health outcomes [6][7]. These poor health outcomes are also linked to experiencing violence, discrimination, racism, transphobia and homophobia [7][8].

Some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQI+SB people choose to move off Country to relocate to a more accepting community or to access appropriate health care services [7][8]. However, this can also result in a loss of connection to Country and decreased financial, community and family support [7][8]. Additionally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with non-binary sexual and gender identities may also experience poor social and emotional wellbeing if they feel excluded from cultural practices, such as men’s and women’s business [7].

There is growing recognition for increased comprehensive health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQI+SB people [1][7]. This also includes the importance of community-led and culturally appropriate initiatives [1][7]. An example of this is demonstrated through organisations such as the AIDS Council of New South Wales (ACON), who have a strong health promotion and community engagement focus, promoting positive sexual health and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention messages for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who identify as LGBTQI+SB [9].