IPSA Turns 40: Celebrating Four Decades of Intersex Peer Support

On a joyful evening at the Victorian Pride Centre in St Kilda, Melbourne (Naarm), Intersex Peer Support Australia (IPSA) celebrated its 40th birthday — marking four decades as the longest running intersex organisation in Australia, and possibly the world.

Dignitaries, members, and guests mingled together to honour the organisation’s remarkable journey, from its early days of meetings at Melbourne's Royal Children’s Hospital to retreats, conferences, and community gatherings. Over time, IPSA’s focus has shifted from “fixing the pathologised” to fostering empowerment, solidarity, and support for intersex people just as we are.

Honouring Legacy and Leadership

The evening was organised by Kylie Bond, IPSA's Peer Support Coordinator and the evening's emcee was Paul Byrne-Moroney. Paul, resplendent in purple and gold, led the audience through an evening of memories and acknowledgements.
After an Acknowledgement of Country, the evening featured reflections from past IPSA Presidents, each sharing wisdom and legacy.

Tony Briffa (President 2001–2004, 2005–2006) spoke about the early days when IPSA was founded in 1985 at Royal Children's Hospital by Dr Garry Warne and how it became peer led in 1996 and how important this was. Andie Hider (President 2004–2005) shared about IPSA being a small, volunteer based network of people with intersex variations and their families, coming together to find understanding, information and connection at a time when intersex voices were largely unheard. Phoebe Hart (President 2008–2010) talked about the transformation of what started in a clinical hospital environment to growing into a national network, providing peer support, advocacy, information and community for people born with variations in sex characteristics and those who love them. Bonnie Hart (President 2012–2019) talked about how IPSA's 40 year journey reflects the strength and resilience of the intersex community. From early days of secrecy and isolation, through decades of activism and education, to today's celebration of pride and empowerment- IPSA has remained a safe space where people can share their stories, find support, and know they are not alone. After Bonnie spoke, Paul officially presented her with the 2025 Del Victus Memorial Award, placing the medal around Bonnie's neck.This award, created in memory of Del Victus, a much‑loved community member who passed away in December 2024, recognises outstanding contributions to intersex advocacy and activism.

Dr Morgan Carpenter, Executive Director of InterAction for Health and Human Rights, spoke about the unification of IPSA and Intersex Human Rights Australia in 2024, and how IPSA now operates as a project under the umbrella of InterAction.

The LGBTQIA+ Commissioner of Victoria, Joe Ball, addressed the gathering, and pledged his ongoing and steadfast support for uplifting intersex rights within Victoria. Vickie Ward, Victorian Minister for Equality, was unable to attend but sent a supportive video message.

Michelle McGrath, IPSA’s final President before unification, spoke passionately about the importance of peer support and expressed gratitude to the volunteers who make IPSA’s work possible.

A Night of Celebration

The celebration was filled with joy and emotion. A cake was cut and many photos captured the spirit of the occasion. Intersex musical artist Max Aurora performed their moving piece Unravelling, which resonated deeply with the crowd. Guests signed a large intersex flag in solidarity, and as the evening drew to a close, an enthusiastic throng joined the dancefloor to finish the night on a high.

Looking Forward

The 40th birthday celebration was more than a milestone — it was a testament to the strength, passion, determination, solidarity, and hard work of countless people who have contributed to IPSA’s journey. As IPSA continues under the umbrella of InterAction, the legacy of peer support remains strong, ensuring that intersex voices are heard, valued, and empowered for generations to come.