Oct 29, 2025 – Olympian Ian Thorpe AM has urged federal politicians to reject fearmongering and misinformation, warning that toxic public debates take a serious toll on the mental health of young LGBTIQ+ people. 

Thorpe delivered his impassioned plea at the inaugural Parliamentary Friends of LGBTIQ+ Australians morning tea, hosted on Tuesday by the group’s new co-chairs — Labor MP Sharon Claydon, Liberal MP Leon Rebello, Greens Senator Nick McKim and Independent MP Allegra Spender. 

“At a time when Australia is investing in better mental health and suicide prevention, it makes no sense for political debate or media coverage to fuel the very stigma that drives those poor outcomes. We can and must do better,” said Thorpe. 

“Fearmongering and misinformation about trans people dressed up as political debate harms real people. It echoes the same old playbook that once painted gay men as predators. It’s divisive, dangerous and deeply harmful.”  

Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown, who also addressed the gathering of parliamentarians, said small but noisy fringe groups - who do not reflect the values of most Australians - were getting louder and more aggressive. 

“We are a small community experiencing disproportionately poor mental health, higher suicide risk as well as depression and anxiety - not because of who we are, but because of stigma, discrimination and hate,” she said. 

“Words matter. Young people hear them, and they absorb not just what is said, but how it’s said. The link between hateful rhetoric and poor mental health outcomes is clear and it’s on all of us to do better.” 

Ms Brown said LGBTIQ+ people are being increasingly demonised in other countries around the world. 

“Australia is not immune from this,” she said. “Our leaders must denounce these attacks clearly and consistently. When those in power stay silent, it sends a dangerous message that these attitudes are acceptable. 

“But it will take all of to make a real difference: leaders who speak up, stronger legal protections and everyday people who refuse to stay silent when they hear hate - whether it’s in parliament, on the street or around the dinner table.”  

Co-chair Sharon Claydon MP: 

“This friendship group is about lifting the tone of public debate and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion. 

“We know too many LGBTIQ+ Australians still face stigma and discrimination, and that takes a real toll on people’s mental health. 

“When we engage with empathy and respect, we help build a country where LGBTIQ+ Australians can live with dignity, pride, and good health. That’s what this group is here to champion.” 

Co-chair Senator Nick McKim:  

"This morning tea is about respect and dignity for LGBTIQ+ people at a time when some are trying to drag us backwards. 

“We have to call out those forces of hate and division wherever they appear and stand together for equality and compassion."  

Co-chair Leon Rebello MP:  

“I’m proud to be supporting Australians to live with dignity, respect, and the freedom to be themselves. 

“This inaugural event reflects our commitment to equality and to creating a country where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”  

Co-chair Allegra Spender MP:  

“LGBTIQ+ people are such an important and vibrant part of my community and I’m so proud to co-chair this group and be their MP. We’ve come a long, long way, but LGBTIQ+ Australians are still facing discrimination – and some of it is still legal under our current laws. 

“A group like this, that reaches across the parliament to support the LGBTIQ+ community, is so important. People’s lives shouldn’t be a political football. We need to elevate our political and media discourse and treat every person, whatever their sexuality or gender, with respect.” 

Link to photos from the event can be found here: Thorpe Event Photos