Collaborating for Interstate and International Policy Development

Abstract

In Australia education is state-run; the eight states and territories feature both government and independent schooling systems. This paper discusses how research on the varying positions of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (GLBTIQ) students within Australian education policy documents in these different sectors was used in advocacy to encourage the adoption of best practices. Specifically, it describes how survey data on the schooling experiences of over 3000 Australian GLBTIQ young people aged 14-21 years was used to identify the best policies and programs currently in use in Australia (in contexts such as the Victorian Government system). Significant correlations between policy and a variety of well-being and psycho-social outcomes for GLBTIQ students, including lowered incidence of homophobic abuse and suicide, were uncovered. Ideal policy visions and programs were outlined and promoted in advocacy in other states (such as WA, NSW and SA) and international contexts (such as South Africa and others). Researcher collaboration across Australia and internationally has promoted useful policy types, but the paper cautions against an overly simplistic view of transnational best-practice adoption.