2026 Applications for the ACT LGBTIQA+ Ministerial Advisory Council

The LGBTIQA+ Ministerial Advisory Council (the Council) is set up to:

• give advice to the government on issues affecting LGBTIQA+ communities
• keep the  Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services informed about new issues, risks, and opportunities
• consult with LGBTIQA+ people living in Canberra to hear different viewpoints and share these views with the government
• share updates and information with LGBTIQA+ communities about the Council’s work
• work with other ministerial advisory councils to ensure LGBTIQA+ voices and perspectives are heard.

We use the acronym 'LGBTIQA+' to include many identities and experiences, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, queer, asexual, aromantic, transgender, agender, non-binary, and intersex people. We know that there is no single experience that represents what it means to be part of the LGBTIQA+ community. The terms we use help us talk about the community, but they can't capture the full range of individual identities and experiences.

The Council is an advisory body. It does not have the power to change the laws or make other decisions on behalf of the Government.

The Office of LGBTIQA+ Affairs supports the functions of the Council.

Council’s members are appointed by ACT Ministers, ensuring that the membership represents the broad spectrum of people in LGBTIQA+ communities.

The Council includes members who have knowledge and experience of the communities it represents. Where appropriate, members include LGBTIQA+ people with disability, LGBTIQA+ people of diverse ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds, LGBTIQA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and LGBTIQA+ people of different ages and from different parts of the ACT.

Before any appointments are made, the Office for Women, Multicultural ACT, Office for Disability and the Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs will be consulted.

Council members are paid a per diem for each meeting (with a maximum of 6 payments per calendar year) as per the latest determination of the ACT Remuneration Tribunal for Part-time Public Office Holders. The per diem rate as of January 2026 is $560 per meeting, plus superannuation for a general member and $650 per meeting, plus superannuation for the Chair.  

About the 2026 recruitment

This recruitment round aims to fill gaps in representation and skills on the Council. There are 4 vacancies available including for the role the Council’s Chair.

Who should apply?

Applicants must show a strong understanding of the interests and concerns of LGBTIQA+ people in the ACT. This includes understanding the issues faced by one or more of the following groups:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTIQA+ people 
• People born with variations of sex characteristics  
• Trans and gender diverse people
• Older LGBTIQA+ people   
• LGBTIQA+ parents and carers 

Applicants must also have knowledge in one or more of the following areas:

• How race, ethnicity, religion and migration status intersect with LGBTIQA+ policy
• Disability justice and inclusion in LGBTIQA+ spaces 
• LGBTIQA+ health issues  
• Family, domestic and sexual violence in LGBTIQA+ communities  
• Working with and engaging government

Applicants must show that they understand the role of the Council and have the time and skills to take part in its work. Applicants must also demonstrate all of the following:

• Experience developing policy advice
• Experience using lived experience to consult with and engage diverse LGBTIQA+ communities in Canberra, including running genuine consultations
• A strong commitment to building an inclusive community
• A strong commitment to actively take part in Council meetings and activities

Confidentiality 

All information provided in this form will be treated as confidential. In compliance with the Information Privacy Act 2014 (the Act) personal information on this form may be stored in HCSD records database and may also be used for statistical research, information provision and evaluation of services. Your personal information may be disclosed to other agencies and third parties for purposes related to this application. Except in these circumstances, personal or commercial information will only be disclosed to third parties with your consent unless otherwise required or authorised by law. 

Accessibility 

• The ACT Government is committed to making its information, services, events and venues, accessible to as many people as possible.
• If you have difficulty reading a standard printed document and would like to receive this publication in an alternative format—such as large print or audio—please telephone 13 22 81
• If English is not your first language and you require translating and interpreting services, please telephone 131 450.
• If you are deaf or hearing impaired and require the TTY typewriter service—please telephone (02) 6205 0888.

 How to apply

• Online: Applications are accepted via SmartyGrants. If you are unable to complete the online application, fill out this form and submit it together with a copy of your CV via one of the ways below.
• By email: your application needs to be marked “nomination in confidence” and emailed to LGBTIQACouncil@act.gov.au
• By post: Mail your application to: ACT LGBTIQA+ Ministerial Advisory Council, Health and Community Services Directorate, GPO Box 158 CANBERRA  ACT  2601
• Deliver by hand: You must email LGBTIQACouncil@act.gov.au to arrange a day to deliver your application.
• Verbal application: You can meet with the Office of LGBTIQA+ Affairs for a verbal application. The Office staff will record your application from your words. The Office cannot help you answer the questions or improve your responses, only record exactly what you say. Such a meeting will need to be booked at least 3 business days before the deadline. Email: LGBTIQACouncil@act.gov.au to arrange this.

Other information

• You will be told we have received your application. Please contact the ACT LGBTIQA+ Ministerial Advisory Council Secretariat if you do not receive a confirmation by 8 April 2026.
• Applications which are late, incomplete or not compliant with provided instructions will not be considered. Once you’ve submitted your application, you cannot add new information or ask to amend any of the information submitted.
• The interviews will be held on 28 April. 
• It is anticipated that applicants will be informed of the outcome of this process in July.