Common Ground: Building Belonging, Justice, and Community Capacity in Queensland
From 15–18 September, Brisbane became the heart for a transformative week of professional development and community capacity building: Common Ground. Hosted by the Queensland Council for LGBTI Health (QC), this conference brought together passionate advocates, community leaders, and health professionals to explore the themes of belonging and justice.
A Week of Connection and Collaboration
Common Ground was more than an event- it was a convergence of purpose. QC’s key programs came together under one roof, offering attendees a rare opportunity to engage deeply with the impactful work being done across the state. From psychosocial support to aged care navigation, the week highlighted the breadth and depth of services that empower LGBTIQA+SB communities.
Supporting Our Elders: QC’s Aged Care Navigation
QC supports and serves people of all ages within the community and QC’s Aged Care team were passionate in sharing about their work. QC’s Aged Care Navigation service offers free, independent, and confidential support to senior LGBTI+SB people in Brisbane North, Cairns, and Yarrabah. This vital service ensures that older community members can access the care they need with dignity and respect.
InterLink: Groundbreaking Psychosocial Support for Individuals with Innate Variations of Sex Characteristics
InterAction was proud to be part of this gathering. Gwen Smith and Derek Tys represented InterLink, sharing about the scope and nature of their work and also contributing to a roundtable panel that addressed the emotional toll and cultural load carried by those working in advocacy and support spaces. Their insights highlighted the importance of psychosocial support and the need for greater understanding and empathy in our collective work.
Margie McCumstie, Training and Communications Coordinator at InterAction, also attended and actively participated in discussions. “Common Ground was not only informative, thought-provoking and interesting,” Margie shared, “it was also an incredible opportunity to network with amazing people who share a commitment to making a difference in the world.”
Spotlight on 2Spirits: Cultural Leadership and Inclusive Education
A standout presence during the week was 2Spirits, whose work continues to uplift Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTIQ Sistergirl and Brotherboy people. Through yarning circles, workshops, outreach, and campaigns, 2Spirits fosters awareness and understanding across communities.
Their Inclusive Services Training Package equips professionals with the tools to support diverse identities with cultural sensitivity. From Elders Forums in remote regions to statewide community partnerships, 2Spirits is building bridges of inclusion, education, and healing.
Their peer education model creates culturally safe networks for all ages, promoting access to health and wellbeing resources. Additionally, 2Spirits offers consultancy to NGOs and government agencies, helping embed cultural and gender identities into policy frameworks.
Gayawur Rainbow: Affirming Care for LGBTI Well-Beings
Developed in partnership between 2Spirits and QC, Gayawur Rainbow is a groundbreaking initiative that embodies affirming, holistic, and culturally grounded care. This model champions visibility, connection, and self-determination, ensuring that LGBTIQA+SB individuals are seen, heard, and valued.
“You belong here” is more than a slogan—it’s a promise. Gayawur Rainbow is a testament to what’s possible when cultural leadership and community-driven care come together to create spaces of healing and empowerment.
Together, we make a difference.
Common Ground was a celebration of resilience, collaboration, and the unwavering commitment to justice and belonging. It reminded us that when we come together, sharing stories, knowledge, and care, we build stronger, more inclusive communities.
And in those communities, everyone has a place.
You must be logged in to post a comment.