Rainbow Connections was founded in 2015 to fill a gap in community support and engagement for transgender, non- binary and gender diverse young people of Primary school age. It is a grass roots group run by a volunteer facilitator whose child transitioned at 8 years of age.

The group’s values and mission include a holistic approach to family support. All family members are welcome to attend, as each person experiences a family member’s transition in their own unique way. Rainbow Connections youth and family group has evolved over the years to include direct social support and peer mentorship of young people in primary and secondary school, as well as Queer parents bringing their children.

The group meets at Shed 11, Hastings and out in the community. Some session examples include arts and crafts, onesie/ oodie movie and popcorn nights, making our own dinners, and console and board games. Families represent Rainbow Connections through participating in LGBTQIA+ days of significance through school, work and community, march each year at Pride March, as well being invited to guest speak at Tafes, universities, clubs and networking groups.