Parents and friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)

About Parents and friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)

Welcome to PFLAG Brisbane

On behalf of the Committee of PFLAG+ I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to our website.   The + sign has recently been added because of inclusivity. We believe it’s important for parents to know who have LGBTQIA+ children, you are always welcome at PFLAG+.

PFLAG is an international peer support group that has been operating since the mid 80’s when June Smythe from Perth in WA initiated the first PFLAG group in Australia. Every group in Australia is 100% voluntary, self funded, with no political affiliation and secular. All groups operate at different strengths, depending on regions.

At present the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer or questioning (LGBTIQA+) community is one of the last minority groups in Australia still living with varying forms of discrimination and injustice.  Now, it is commonplace for parents to be seen successfully advocating for their children’s rights at all levels of government. Parental advocacy has brought great change for our children’s rights since PFLAG+ began in Australia.

As parents with children who identify as LGBTIQ+ we believe – to enable them to have truly fulfilling lives – it’s important they are able to live their lives honestly and with integrity, without fear of discrimination, ostracism or abuse.

PFLAG+, even though primarily a support group for parents, strives to also support LGBTQIA+ youth who are in fear they may be/or have been abandoned by family. We do this by providing information and referrals for them while they are going through the process of deciding whether to disclose to family. Additionally, we can offer resources for their families that helps them to understand the changes

For those who aren’t accepted by family we want them to know they are welcome and supported by PFLAG+.

Please note we have done our best to be as supportive and inclusive as possible, so if pronouns or terminology is not always correct or at times inconsistent in our resources, please accept our apologies.