As of 2022–2023, the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (NCSS) – which all Roman Catholic dioceses and their entities in Australia are required to adhere to – explicitly include people of diverse sexualities. Standard 4.3 requires that attitudes and behaviours within the Church respect the inherent dignity of all individuals, be inclusive, and respond to diverse needs. The NCSS defines “people of diverse sexualities” broadly, encompassing all variations of sex characteristics, sexual orientations, and gender identities without requiring each to be specified individually (NCSS Audit Report, Page 42).

In practice, this means that even where priests, religious, employees, or volunteers personally hold views that are not affirming of LGBTIQA+ people, they cannot discriminate against individuals whilst carrying out their duties. Outside of specific sacramental exclusions – such as not officiating same-sex weddings – they cannot deny volunteer roles, leadership positions, or Holy Communion to a person solely on the basis of their being LGBTIQA+. As noted elsewhere in this FAQ, blessings for same-sex couples are now permitted under Fiducia Supplicans, and transgender people are allowed to be baptised, be godparents, and act as a witness for weddings in a Catholic marriage ceremony. This includes people who are in a same-sex relationship and/or have already transitioned.

Discrimination may nonetheless occur, and some Catholic employees or volunteers may fail to intervene when they witness it or hear about it. If you experience or witness discrimination, it can be reported to your local Safeguarding Officer or diocesan Safeguarding Office. Every parish and official Catholic community group has a designated Safeguarding Officer. For more information, visit safeguarding.perthcatholic.org.au.

Acceptance Perth operates independently of the Archdiocese. While safeguarding complaints are handled directly by diocesan offices, we are always happy to help you find the right contact or support.