Queer Health in the Highlands: Where to Find Support, Testing & Safe Spaces

Sweet Release
Sep 16
2 min read

Introduction

Good health is about more than doctor’s visits. For LGBTQ+ people in regional areas like the Southern Highlands, it also means access to safe, inclusive services where identities are respected and affirmed. While the region doesn’t yet have the abundance of queer-specific clinics you’ll find in Sydney, there are growing networks of support, testing, and safe spaces for locals.

Here’s your go-to guide for staying healthy, connected, and supported in the Highlands.

1. Sexual Health & Testing

Sexual health remains a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ wellbeing. From HIV prevention to STI testing, knowing where to go matters.

Bowral Sexual Health Clinic (Southern Highlands Sexual Health Service): Offers confidential STI/HIV testing and treatment. Staff are trained to work with diverse clients, though booking ahead is recommended.
GPs in Bowral, Mittagong, and Moss Vale: Some practices are LGBTQ+-friendly — ask openly about inclusivity when booking to ensure comfort.
a[TEST] (ACON Sydney): While city-based, it’s the closest LGBTQ+-specific testing service, worth accessing for those able to travel.

Tip: If you’re unsure where to go, start by asking your GP for a referral to a sexual health service that respects LGBTQ+ needs.

2. Mental Health & Wellbeing

Queer people in regional Australia experience higher rates of anxiety and depression - often linked to isolation or lack of services. Fortunately, there are supports available:

Headspace Goulburn: Accessible to young people (12-25) in the broader Highlands region.
Southern Highlands Private Hospital & local psychologists: Some practitioners openly identify as LGBTQ+-affirming. Ask for referrals through your GP.
QLife (National Service): 1800 184 527 - free phone and web chat support for LGBTQ+ people, available 3pm-midnight every day.

3. Community Support & Safe Spaces

Healthcare isn’t only medical - it’s also about connection. Community support reduces isolation and strengthens resilience.

Online Highlands Queer Groups: Local Facebook groups and community pages provide information, peer support, and updates on queer events.

4. For Trans & Gender Diverse Community

Access to gender-affirming care can be difficult in regional NSW, but options are growing:

Endocrinology & GP Services in Bowral/Wollongong: Limited but expanding; some GPs in Bowral are supportive of trans clients.
The Gender Centre (Sydney): Provides support, referrals, and outreach often accessed by regional clients.
TransHub (Online by ACON): Comprehensive digital resource for trans and gender diverse people.

5. Emergency & Crisis Support

Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis line).
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 - trained counsellors, including LGBTQ+-specific support.
QLife: As above, for queer-specific crisis and peer support.

Why This Matters in the Highlands

For many LGBTQ+ people, especially in smaller towns, healthcare can feel daunting. Asking if a service is queer-friendly, worrying about being judged, or simply not knowing where to go can delay treatment. By building a directory of services and celebrating safe spaces, the Highlands community can take control of its own wellbeing.

Conclusion

Health and wellbeing in the Southern Highlands is about more than access - it’s about inclusion. With growing networks of queer-friendly doctors, sexual health clinics, safe venues, and online supports, LGBTQ+ locals are increasingly able to live healthier, happier, and more visible lives without leaving home.

Your health matters. And in the Southern Highlands, you don’t have to face it alone.