Being Invited In and Cultural Safety

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, “inviting in” is especially important. Some people are Sistergirls or Brotherboys, and these identities are part of their culture. In many First Nations communities, people share who they are through relationships, community roles, and stories. “Coming out” in the Western way may not feel right or culturally safe.

Some First Nations people have also experienced racism, homophobia or transphobia from services, so trust may need to be built slowly. Respecting culture and identity means listening carefully and following the person’s lead.

Good support means:

Using the person’s chosen name and pronouns.

Letting them choose what to share and when.

Helping them access services that support their identity and culture.

Asking what is important to them—not just what is in the NDIS plan.

Being open to learning and taking part in training on LGBTIQA+SB and cultural safety.

Saying sorry if you make a mistake and learning from it.

Your participant might invite you in if they feel safe and respected. You do not need to know everything about them to provide good support. What matters is that they feel seen, heard, and supported to be their whole self.

Being affirming means respecting the person’s choices, identity, and culture. It helps build trust, strong support relationships, and better outcomes.