The 14th of July is International Non-Binary People’s Day. On this day we celebrate the rich diversity in gender and those who do not fit within the gender binary.
Non-binary is an umbrella term for gender identities that sit within, outside of, across or between the spectrum of the male and female binary. A non-binary person might identify as gender-fluid, trans masculine, trans feminine, agender, bigender etc. Non-binary is sometimes shortened to NB or enby. Formal recognition of non-binary as a valid gender identity is growing rapidly. In fact, this year Australia’s Census includes a non-binary option for the first time.
Meridian supports the health and wellbeing of non-binary people, their families and allies. We work with individuals through counselling, peer support and provide training and resources across many settings including workplaces, schools, the community service sector and other organisations.
We offer and refer to a range of non-binary-affirming resources, programs and services delivered by people who genuinely understand the health issues affecting non-binary people.
Language Beyond The Binary Resource
Sexual Health Clinics
Working in partnership with Canberra Sexual Health Centre, the STRIP program allows non-binary and other gender diverse people to take control of their sexual health. STRIP is a community-based STI testing clinic where non-binary and other gender diverse people can speak directly with health professionals who understand our community about their sexual health.
Meridian Wellbeing Services
Meridian Wellbeing Services host the ACT's leading, professional, peer-led wellbeing service for people living with HIV, people impacted by HIV, LGBTIQA+ people, their families-of-choice, sex workers, people of culturally and linguistically diverse communities, carers, and allies.
Our services are peer-informed, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
Our multi-disciplinary team includes:
- Counsellors
- Psychologists
- Clinical Care Coordinator
We are sex positive and affirming of:
- Gender
- Sexuality
- Monogamy and non-monogamy
- Polyamory
- Neurodivergence
- Intersectional identities
We are an appointment-based service, we are not a crisis service.
A Gender Agenda
A Gender Agenda (AGA) provide direct and peer support and advocacy for members of the trans, gender diverse and intersex communities and their families. AGA is a unique community organisation actively engaged in increasing public awareness and understanding of intersex, trans and gender diversity issues. In addition to training and education, they provide advocacy and support services, information and resources and are actively engaged in human rights and law reform. AGA is a vibrant community of sex and gender diverse individuals and their families.
A Gender Agenda (AGA) Non-binary Lunch - July Saturday 13 July:
Further reading/viewing:
- I just came out as non-binary, heres what that means (article)
- This is what gender non-binary people look like(external link) (article)
- Not a boy, not a girl(external link) (Four Corners episode)
- The difference between being non-binary vs androgyny(external link) (YouTube video)
- I just came out as non-binary, here’s what that means(external link) (written interview)
- Trans and Gender Diverse Language Guide (article)