Burnie City Council has endorsed its first LGBTQIA+ Action Plan, making a major step forward for queer inclusion in North West Tasmania.
The Burnie LGBTIQA+ Action Plan 2026–2031 sets out practical actions to create a safer, more welcoming city for LGBTIQA+ people.
It is also the first stand-alone LGBTQIA+ action plan developed by a council in North West Tasmania.
The plan has been shaped by Burnie’s queer community through the Council’s Community Advisory Group, alongside local research and community feedback.
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The community said there is still work to do
The need for the plan was made clear through community consultation.
More than half of survey participants said they did not consider Burnie a welcoming and inclusive place for LGBTQIA+ people.
Almost 60% also said they had limited their public presence because of fears around exclusion, discrimination or violence.
Advisory Group member and Deputy Mayor Giovanna Simpson said the message from the community was clear.
“There is still work to do to ensure Burnie is a place where LGBTQIA+ people feel safe, welcome and included,” she said.
Three priorities for a more inclusive Burnie
The five-year plan focuses on three key areas.
A Safe and Respectful Burnie will focus on creating safer, more inclusive public spaces and experiences.
Belonging and Connection aims to strengthen community connection, visibility and opportunities for LGBTQIA+ people to participate.
And An Inclusive Council will work to embed LGBTQIA+ inclusion across Council services, facilities, programs and everyday practices.
It will also see Council advocate on issues affecting LGBTQIA+ people that sit beyond its direct responsibilities.
Inclusion needs to be part of everyday life
LGBTQIA+ Community Advisory Group member Maxxy Prior said meaningful inclusion goes beyond policies and Pride events.
“It is about the everyday experience of feeling comfortable, respected and welcome.”
For Prior, that means being able to use a Council service, attend an event or simply go about daily life without wondering whether they will be accepted.
The Council are now turning its attention to putting the plan into action.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Advisory Group, LGBTQIA+ community and our partners to put the Plan into action,” Cr Simpson said.
For Burnie’s queer community, that work could help make safety, visibility and belonging a much needed everyday part of life.
To view Burnie City Council’s LGBTQIA+ Action Plan head to burnie.tas.gov.au/LGBTIQA-ActionPlan
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