Embracing Diversity
Embracing Diversity Collection
Celebrating equality throughout the defence and armed forces.
"All Australians who serve in our defence forces should be honoured for their service to our country.
The stories of service from across our great country are as unique as the individuals who share them,
and each one deserves to be told."
- Assistant Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence, Matt Thistlethwaite.
LAPEL PINS & BADGES
Celebrate and embrace diversity in our defence force with these stunning lapel pins & badges.
Created to celebrate the incredible diversity of those who serve across all areas of the defence force,
these vibrant pins each feature a unique rainbow poppy with beautiful metallic detailing throughout.
Wearable on caps, bags and clothing these pins are a perfect addition to any collection.
-
Inclusion and Respect Poppy Lapel Pin
ORDER NOW -
Inclusion and Respect Poppy
Limited Edition Lapel Pin
ORDER NOW
INCLUSION AND RESPECT MAGNABADGEâ„¢
This vibrant badge features a stunning rainbow poppy on our fantastic Magna Badge design!
With only 2,500 available, do not miss out on this beautiful badge for your collection.
Don't put holes in your lapels, with a Magna Badge you can easily attach these beautiful badges to your clothing
with an easy-to-use magnet on the reverse.
This colourful and bright design is perfect on your lapel or as a stunning addition to your growing Magna Badge collection.
Limited to only 2,500
ORDER NOW
HISTORY OF SERVICE
Timeline provided by the DEFGLIS Defence LGBTI Information Service.
PRE 1992
The Gay Ex-Services Association operated from 1982-84. Their President was Max Campbell, who served in the Royal Australian Air Force from 1961-81, including a tour in Vietnam 1966-67.
The Association was prevented by the R.S.L. from laying a wreath at the Cenotaph in 1984. You can read more about the incident and the reflections of Max Campbell in the first report back from the research team.
1992
On 23 November 1992, the Keating Government announced a cabinet decision to revoke the policy on homosexual behaviour. This came as welcome news to young sailor Anita Van Der Meer who had taken a complaint to the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission in response to the Royal Australian Navy seeking to discharge her for being same-sex attracted. While the Commission did not have the power to act, her complaint was one that led to the removal of the policy.
Personnel who were involuntarily discharged prior to 1992 on the basis of their same-sex attraction can seek to have their discharge paperwork amended to reflect a voluntary discharge.
1996
1996 saw the formation of G-Force, the first known support group for actively serving members. The group marched in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras against the express wishes of Defence Headquarters. President of G-Force David Mitchell - then a Sergeant in the RAAF - received threats from a senior officer in Defence who threatened his career if the march proceeded.
Just prior to the march, Defence members were approved to march in the G-Force float but were not permitted to march in uniform.
Mitchell and G-Force went on to advocate for recognition of same-sex partners by Defence Health Funds.
1999
In 1999, Andy Stuht - a member of the Navy - organised the second participation of Defence personnel in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. The group was called "Defence In Unity." The group was not provided with permission to march in uniform, and instead elected to march wearing various retired items of Defence uniform.
2002
The Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service - DEFGLIS was formed in 2002 by then Petty Officer Stuart O'Brien.
2003
In 2003, Defence implemented a ban on members undergoing gender transition while in the Australian Defence Force. At this stage in history, DEFGLIS did not have knowledge, or experience with gender transition or gender identity.
2005
2006
Health Directive 210 Policy on the prevention, detection and management of blood borne virus infections is released.
2007
DEFGLIS President Stuart O'Brien receives a letter from Defence senior leadership outlining agreement and conditions for Defence personnel to participate in Mardi Gras. A signal is released from Defence providing permission for Defence personnel to participate in Mardi Gras.
2008
Defence personnel participated in the Sydney Mardi Gras with formal approval from Defence in DEFGLIS civilian attire.
2009
Following release of the Acts Interpretation Act in 2009, further inequality was removed between same-sex and opposite-sex couples. However policy discrimination remained in effect and continues to remain in effect as of 2015 maintaining inequality between how same-sex and married couples are recognised by Defence.
2010
In 2010, Defence removed the ban on transgender personnel by withdrawing its policy. At this point, a number of personnel in Defence had been diagnosed with gender dysphoria.
2011
In 2011, DEFGLIS was renamed to Defence LGBTI Information Service to better reflect the membership base and clarify inclusion for all LGBTI personnel and their families. An interim board was established and a new website was launched to improve sustainability and improved governance for the association.
2012
General David Hurley - Chief of Defence Force granted approval for Defence personnel to participate at the Sydney Mardi Gras in uniform.
2013
Defence personnel marched for the first time at the Sydney Mardi Gras in uniform. The contingent was led by Air Commodore Tracy Smart, the most senior openly serving LGBTI person in Defence, and DEFGLIS founder Warrant Officer Stuart O'Brien. The Australian Army released an Army Pride Pin - the first time a Defence symbol had been combined with an LGBTI diversity theme.
2015
The sacrifice of LGBTI service personnel was commemorated by DEFGLIS members for the first time across Australia. All three service Warrant Officers marched in the Defence contingent at the Sydney Mardi Gras Parade. Defence launched the Defence Pride network at the inaugural Military Pride Ball hosted by DEFGLIS. The Defence Pride Network is the Defence internal employee support network for LGBTI personnel. Defence ranked equal 17th in the Australian Workplace Equality Index awards and the top public sector inclusive employer alongside the Australian Federal Police. Health Directive 234 outlining medical care considerations for personnel with gender dysphoria was released.
2016
The method by which families were recognised by Defence was streamlined into a single process for married and non-married couples. The new process removed differences in the burden of proof required to prove the existence of a relationship, and aligned requirements with those used by other government agencies.
THIS COLLECTION IS FEATURED ON:
EXPLORE OUR OTHER COLLECTIONS
HELPFUL LINKS
Categories
-
Products
-
Military Collectables & Gifts
- Hair Accessories
- Number Plate Frames
- Phone Cases
- Retail Packs
- Military Artworks
- Collectors Tins
- Military Awards
- Badges
- Purple Poppy
- Military Bag Tags
- Bags
- Military Bags & Cases
- Military Banners
- Bears Great War
- Military Belt Buckles
- Military Books
- Ceremonial Swords
- Military Collectable Coins
- Compendiums
- Desk Sets
- Display Frames
- Military DVDs
- Fabric Car Mirror Covers
- Military Figurines
- Games
- Garden
- Gift Packs
- Great War Diaries
- Military Hat Badges
- Military Jewellery
- Military Key Rings
- Military Lanyards
- Military Magnets
- Medallions
- Military Badges
- Military Decorations
- Miniature Figurines
- Military Miniature Replicas
- Military Models
- Pennies
- Pet Gifts
- Military Photo Frames
- Rulers
- Collectable Snow Globes
- Collectable Stamps
- Stationery
- Military Stickers
- Military Stress Toys
- Military Teddy Bears
-
The Poppy Collection
- Bags & Cases
- Bar Runners
- Candle Holders
- Coffee Mugs
- Commemorative Poppy Plush Toys
- Cuff Links
- Drink Coolers
- Face Masks
- Garden
- Gift Packs
- Key Rings
- Lapel Pins
- Neck Gaiters
- Notebooks
- Pennies
- Pens
- Pet Gifts
- Poppy Apparel
- Poppy Badges
- Poppy Drinkware
- Poppy Gifts
- Poppy Jewellery
- Poppy Key Rings & Tags
- Poppy Umbrellas
- Reusable Mug
- Scarves
- Socks
- Teddy Bears
- Ties
- Wreaths
- Tie Bars
- Army Toys
- Two Ups
- Umbrellas
- Military Wreaths
- Military Drinkware
- Gift Vouchers
- Survival Gear
-
Tactical Gear
- Boots & Socks
- Ghillie Suits
- Tactical Tools
-
Military Field Equipment
- Bungee Cords
- Camo Face Paints
- Camo Tapes
- Counters
- Emergency Blankets
- Firesteel
- Hoochie Cord
- Military Binoculars
- Military Compasses
- Military Dog Tags
- Military Sewing Kits
- Military Tent Pegs
- Ocky Straps
- Paracords
- Scrim Nets
- Survival Kits
- Tactical Cleaners
- Tactical Shovels
- Tactical Stationery
- Tactical Watches
- Waterproofing
- Eyewear
- Hydration
- ID Holders & Wallets
- Load Carrying Systems
- Packs
- Tactical Patches
- Military Protective Gear
- Tactical Sunglasses
- Tactical & Field Gear Packs
-
Field Bags
- Accessories For Military Bags
- Cases
- Dry Sacks
- Medical Packs
- Military Backpacks
- Military Chest Rigs
- Military Id Holders
- Military Map Cases
- Military Pouches
- Multicam Pouches
- Tactical Carabiners
- Tactical Carriers
- Tactical Folders
- Tactical Lanyards
- Tactical Laptop Bags
- Tactical Lock Bags
- Tactical Notebook Covers
- Military Card Holders
- Tactical Boots
-
Military Tactical Clothing
- Gaiters
- Military Socks
- Neck Gaiters
- Shemaghs
- Tactical Balaclavas
- Tactical Beanies
- Tactical Belts
- Tactical Caps
- Tactical Gloves
- Tactical Hats
- Tactical Headover
- Tactical Helmets
- Tactical Jacket
- Tactical Jumpers & Fleece
- Tactical Pants
- Tactical Shirts
- Tactical Singlets
- Tactical Undershirts
- Tactical Underwear
- Tactical Wraps
- Tactical Sleeping Gear
- Torches And Lighting
- Toiletries
- Military Uniform
- Military Clothing
- Anzac Day Gifts
-
Remembrance Gifts
- New Releases
- Remembrance Day Accessories
- remembrance Day Artworks
- Remembrance Day Badges
- Remembrance Day Banners
- Remembrance Day Coasters
- Remembrance Day Cufflinks
- Remembrance Day Drinkware
- Remembrance Day Headwear
- Remembrance Day Jewellery
- Remembrance Day Keyrings
- Remembrance Day Lapel Pins
- Remembrance Day Medallions
- Remembrance Day Mementos
- Remembrance Day Mugs
- Remembrance Day Pens
- Remembrance Day Scarves
- Remembrance Day Snow Globes
- Remembrance Day Socks
- Remembrance Day Stationery
- Remembrance Day Stickers
- Remembrance Day Ties
- Remembrance Day Umbrellas
-
Military Collectables & Gifts
-
Medals
- Military Medals
-
Police Medals
- National Police Medals
- ACT Police Medals
- AFP Medals
- New South Wales Police Medals
- Northern Territory Police Medals
- Queensland Police Medals
- South Australia Police Medals
- Tasmania Police Medals
- Victoria Police Medals
- Western Australia Police Medals
- Police Citations
- Police Medal Clasps
- Police Ribbon Bars
- Police Medal Ribbons
-
Emergency Services Medals
- National Emergency Services Medals
- ACT Emergency Services Medals
- New South Wales Emergency Service Medals
- Northern Territory Emergency Services Medals
- Queensland Emergency Services Medals
- South Australia Emergency Services Medals
- Tasmania Emergency Services Medals
- Victoria Emergency Services Medals
- Western Australia Emergency Services Medals
- Volunteer Emergency Services Medals
- Emergency Services Medal Clasps
- Emergency Services Ribbon Bars
- Emergency Services Medal Ribbons
- Corrective Services Medals
- Foreign Medals
- Medal Boxes, Cases, & Frames
-
Gifts
- Gifts for Adults
- Gifts for Amateur & Hobbyist Chefs
- Gifts for Art Lovers
- Gifts for Book Worms
- Gifts for Ceremonial
- Gifts for Collectors
- Gifts for Families
- Gifts for Fashion Enthusiasts
- Gifts for Green Thumb
- Gifts for Her
- Gifts for Him
- Gifts for History Buffs
- Gifts for Home Décor Lovers
- Gifts for Jewellery Lovers
- Gifts for Kids
- Gifts for Military Personnel
- Gifts for Mothers
- Gifts for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Gifts for Perfect Host
- Gifts for Pet Lovers
- Gifts for Tactical Enthusiasts
- Gifts for Teens
- Gifts for the Health Conscious
- Gifts for Them
- Gifts for Toy Lovers
- Gifts for Veterans
- Organisations
- Sale
-
Brands
-
Campaigns & Collectables
- 25-4
- AAFC 80th
- Leslie Bull Allen Spirit of Mateship
- Remember Charms and Bracelets
- Rings of Mateship
- Spirit of Mateship
- Academy Model Kits
- Afghanistan
- Air Force 100
- Australia Great War
- Battles of Gallipoli
- Beersheba
- Aviation Collection
- Black Hawk End of Service
- Easy Models
- FRAM3D
- Iconic Aviation Collection
- Indigenous Service
- International Fleet Review
- Little Aussie Bears
- MagnaBadge
- Marshall Paintings
- Master Creations
- Naked Army
- Operation Slipper
- Poppy Mpressions
- Poppy Remembrance
- Purple Poppy
- Rising Sun Collection
- Sands of Gallipoli
- Service of Others
- Sluban Blocks
- Then. Now. Always. Collection
- Vietnam
- Windlass
- World War 2
- Collections
- Medals
-
Tactical and Field Gear
- Bamboo Textiles
- Biolite
- Black Diamond
- Blueye Tactical Eyewear
- Bushman Repellent
- Caribee
- Contact Gear Australia
- Frontline Equipment
- G Shock Watches
- Garmont Boots
- Geigerrig Hydration Pack
- Gerber
- Guide Gloves
- Huss
- Jetboil Stoves
- Leatherman
- LifeStraw
- Lifeventure Thermal Mugs
- Mechanix Gloves
- Meindl Boots
- Mentor Bamboo Socks
- Nite-ize S Biner
- Optimus Stoves
- Platatac
- Princeton Tec
- Rite in the Rain
- Salomon Tactical Boots
- Sea to Summit
- Silva Compass
- SORD
- Tasmanian Tiger Tactical Gear
- Tools
- Under Armour
- Vertx
- LED Lenser
- Atka Binoculars
-
Campaigns & Collectables
INFO
- Warehouse Clearance Sale
- brandpro
-
Collections
- Crossing the Line
- Somalia 30th Anniversary
-
Air Force 100
- All Air Force 100
- Air Force Centenary Watches
- Air Force 100 Collection
- The Heritage Range
- Then. Now. Always. Centenary of The Royal Australian Air Force Artwork
- Then. Now. Always. Collection
- Air Force 100 Coins
- Air Force 100 Limited Edition Medallions
- Air Force 100 Limited Edition Lapel Pins
- Air Force 100 Aviator Mark II Watch
- Air Force 100 Airfield Hercules Watch
- Air Force 100 Bausele Airfield Watch
- Air Force 100 Bausele Aviator Watch
- Air Force 100 Ceremonial Swords
- Air Force 100 Aviator Pen
- Anzac Day
- The Afghanistan Collection
- The Australia and New Zealand Collection
- Aviation Collection
- Battles of Gallipoli
- 1st Battallion, Royal Australian Regiment
- Centenary of Armistice
- Charge at Beersheba
- Embracing Diversity
- The End of Service Collection | S-70A-9 Black Hawk.
- Farewell F/A-18 Hornet
- Great War Collections
- Indigenous Service
- Iconic Aviation Collection
- International Fleet Review
-
Limited Edition Gallery
- Military Artworks
- Poppy Mpressions Collection
- Poppy Jewellery
- The Poppy Collection
- Purple Poppy Collection
- Poppy Recollections Collection
- RACMP Centenary
- Remembrance Day
- Royal Australian Infantry RAInf 75th Anniversary
- Royal Australian Regiment RAR 75th Anniversary
- Sands Of Gallipoli Collection
- Service Under Our Flag
-
Vietnam War Collections
- All Vietnam War Collections
- End of Vietnam War 50th Anniversary 2023
- Vietnam War Tri Colour Collection
- Battle of Coral-Balmoral 50th Anniversary
- Colours of Vietnam War Collection
- Vietnam War Combined Arms Contact Collection
- Vietnam War Served with Pride Collection
- Limited Edition Vietnam Bear
- Vietnam War 50th Anniversary 2012
- Battle of Long Tan 50th Anniversary
- Vietnam War Figurine Collection
- Vietnam War Medals
- Vietnam War Books Collection
- In the Service of Others
- World War II Collection
- 100 Years of Australian Submarines
-
Products
- Ghillie Suits
- The Adventures of William Brambleberry: Aviator Mouse Book & Toy Set
- The Art of Sacrifice book
- Caring Hands Light Horse Figurines
- Ceremonial Military Swords
- Coins and Medallions
- Contact Gear 3-Ply Face Masks
- Contact Gear Fabric Car Mirror Covers
- Contact Gear Neck Gaiters
- Custom Medallions
- Educards
- Field Gear
- FRAM3D
- Garmont T8 Boots
- Great War Bear Collection
- Lapel Pins and Badges
- Leather Air Force A2 Flight Jackets
- Leap of Faith Light Horse Figurines
- Limited Edition Army Bears
- Miniature Australian Military Rifles
- Miniature Figurines
- Military Berets
- Military Insignia Rings
- The Memory of Sandakan
- No One Left Behind Book
- The Rising Sun Collection
- Replica Medals and Medal Mounting
- Sands of Gallipoli Medallions
- Tactical Gear
- Tactical & Field Gear Packs
- Vertx Tactical Gear
- World War II Veterans Awarded 75th Anniversay Medallion