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Trans Youth
Do you identify as transgender?
Are you unsure about what your gender identity is? You’re not alone.
Gender refers to an individual’s self-conception as being male, female, something in-between, or something different altogether. Although western society typically divides gender into two categories - male and female - the reality is that gender is actually much more diverse than this. Gender diversity comes in many different forms, including people that may identify as transgender, and also those that don't act in a way stereotypically associated with their gender identity.
The term transgender or 'trans' is a broad term used to describe people who do not fit into western society’s expectations of what it means to be male or female. An important thing to remember is that someone must self-identify as transgender for this term to be used to describe them.
Looking for support?
If you have recently discovered that you're trans and you're looking for support, all of ACON’s services are open to trans people – including our youth projects. A number of other support services for trans youth are outlined below.
If you think you know someone who may be transgender, don't push them to confide in you or to commit to a gender identity. Be a supportive, kind friend who is available when they need you.
GenderQ
GenderQ is a new monthly group at Twenty10. GenderQ is a social space as well as a learning space, where participants can talk about and explore gender and what it means for you. The group welcomes young people who are gender questioning, transgender, gender diverse or just exploring.
When: First Saturday of each month, 10am-12pm
Where: 45 Bedford Street, Newtown
Web: www.twenty10.org.au
Find out more
The Gender Questioning booklet is for young people who are questioning their gender. It's jointly produced by the Trans Melbourne Gender Project and Gay and Lesbian Health Victoria.
Download: GQ Gender Questioning booklet
More info
Contact: ACON's Fun & Esteem Project (for guys) or the Young Women's Project
Tel: (02) 9206 2000
Free Call: 1800 063 060
Hearing Impaired: (02) 9283 2088
E-mail: youth@acon.org.au
Contact: The Gender Centre
This organisation runs groups, workshops and social events for trans people as well as their families and friends.
Contact: Gay & Lesbian Counselling Service
Although this is called the “gay & lesbian” counseling service, they are also trained to counsel and offer information to trans youth. The line is open from 5:30pm – 10:30pm, 7 days a week.
Tel: 02 8594 9596 or 1800 184 527
Contact: Twenty10
Twenty10 will provide you and your family with support if you're at risk of homelessness or experiencing financial difficulties. They also run groups and a drop-in centre for GLBT youth.
Web: www.twenty10.org.au
Transgender Youth Australia
Yahoo youth group for transgender and gender diverse young people.