The status of diverse sexualities and genders in community psychology research and practice: reflections from the Trans-Tasman context

This paper offers analysis and reflection upon the status of working with LGBT
communities in community psychology research and practice in the Trans-Tasman region. While the unique potential for community psychological principles and practices to promote wellbeing for this community have been discussed in US and UK community psychology contexts, we are only beginning this dialogue in the Trans-Tasman. This is different of course to proposing that impressive work is not already being undertaken, and here we draw upon three project examples to showcase just such work, including: research considering the provision of online mental health services for LGBT young people in regional, rural and remote communities; research that examined trans and gender diverse issues in primary education in South Australia; and a project committed to helping to build Rainbow communities free of sexual and partner violence in Aotearoa New Zealand. While not all of these projects may identify themselves as community psychology, each of these projects offers learnings for researchers and practitioners alike and facilitates insight into the connections between community psychology frameworks and LGBT knowledge and practice. The implications of this analysis are reflected upon with a view to promoting progressive and generative collaborative practice.