The SA Health LGBTIQA+ Health and Wellbeing Community of Practice (CoP) is a nursing-driven statewide initiative fostering connection, collaboration, and empowerment to improve care for LGBTIQA+ consumers while supporting nurses as advocates for change.

Recognising the significant health inequities faced by the LGBTIQA+ community, the CoP was developed to create safer, more equitable healthcare across SA Health. Its purpose is to empower staff to advocate for LGBTIQA+ consumers through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and targeted initiatives.

A key strength of the CoP is its ability to break down the isolation often felt by nurses striving to drive change alone. It provides a safe and inclusive space where LGBTIQA+ nurses and allies can connect, share experiences, and ignite passion for equitable care. This environment fosters solidarity, builds confidence, and ensures that no nurse feels they are advocating in isolation.

Since its launch, the CoP has maintained a steady membership of 80 health professionals, 65% of whom identify as LGBTIQA+, 48% being nurses and 16% working in regional or remote areas. Although only in its first year, the CoP has driven several achievements, including:
• Partnering with The Equality Project to host SA Health’s first LGBTIQA+ Workshop.
• Coordinating the largest SA Health Pride March turnout.
• Leading efforts to separate sex and gender fields in SA’s statewide EMR.
• Developing a communication resource to guide staff in safely and respectfully gathering sex and gender information from consumers.

This initiative demonstrates how simple connections can fuel courage and passion in nurses, inspiring them to lead large-scale change and deliver exceptional, inclusive care. The CoP exemplifies the power of nursing leadership in driving health equity and empowering the workforce of the future. SA Health will continue to see their nurses empowered to lead change locally and statewide through the LGBTIQA+ Health and Wellbeing CoP.