While applying to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to have Same-Sex partner’s recognised for entitlements back in 2002, it became clear that support services were needed for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Intersex and Transgender (GLBIT) serving members of the ADF. In response, I approached Defence with the view of creating a web site providing education, a list of resources/services available within the ADF and externally and other relevant information.

This site is not only for GLBIT people, but all personnel within the ADF and supporting the ADF. We all have friends and colleagues whom may GLBIT and supporting them is important for their own wellbeing as well as the ADFs.

The site is managed by volunteers and representatives of the GLBIT Defence Community. Their roles include:

• Research information,
• Ensure information is kept up to date, and
• Represent each state and territory.

Team members are selected by the GLBIT Defence Community each year. Personnel interested in representing their state / territory should contact the administrator of this web site for further information. The Management Team page lists each representative with a brief biography.

It has been a long time coming. While the GLBIT community within the ADF is small, our needs and issues are just as important as those of our heterosexual colleagues.

So, browse the site, make suggestions and comments. This site will be updated once a month; so if you do find a link you think suitable for this site, please pass it on. The site is here for all of us, so your input is very important.

Stuart O’Brien
Chief Petty Officer