Travel advice for LGBTIQA+ staff

We are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ staff while they engage in business related travel.

We operate on a global scale

As a University we operate on a global scale. Our international research and education programs provide opportunities for staff to travel overseas.

There are several activities which may require international travel, such as undertaking research, fieldwork, teaching,  attending conferences, building partnerships, pursuing international fellowships or scholarships, or participating in business development and consulting activities.

While the International Travel Procedure articulates processes for Monash staff on how to make their travel arrangements and seek relevant approvals, this page provides additional support and advice specifically for LGBTIQA+ staff travelling outside Australia.

Ensuring safety for LGBTIQA+ staff

Gender identity, sex and sexuality are protected attributes by Australian law, but this is not the case in all countries around the world. Every country is unique in its approach to LGBTIQA+ people. Although all travellers face some risks overseas, risks can be higher for LGBTIQA+ people in some countries.

When planning international travel, it’s important to research and seek to understand what steps you can take to reduce your risks. We encourage you to review travel advisories and relevant resources for LGBTIQA+ people, to understand the local laws, customs, attitudes and behaviours towards LGBTIQA+ people.

Smart Traveller

Smart Traveller.gov.au is a comprehensive website managed by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The site provides general information about laws and customs of other countries, violence and discrimination, how to be safe in social situations and tips for planning your travel, including LGBTI-specific information.

The International Lesbian Gay Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association

The International Lesbian Gay Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) represents the rights of LGBTIQA+ people around the world. They provide information on sexual orientation laws and the Trans Legal Mapping Report.

Human Dignity Trust

A map of countries across the world where lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are criminalised.

What to investigate

  • Laws of the country
  • What legal protections exist for LGBTIQA+ people in your planned destination
  • What happens when local laws are broken
  • Attitudes and behaviours towards LGBTIQA+ individuals
  • Visibility of LGBTIQA+ identities
  • If you are visiting an organisation, how they support their LGBTIQA+ community

If you do not feel comfortable proceeding with your travel to the international location, please raise your concerns or discuss the travel arrangements with your supervisor.