Junction Support Services is on track to achieve Rainbow Tick accreditation in 2026.

The Rainbow Tick is a national standard that supports health and community organisations in adopting practices that are safe, inclusive, affirming and culturally respectful.

For Junction, this accreditation is a meaningful opportunity to further embrace our core values of respect, inclusion and diversity, collaboration, innovation and integrity.

The journey to Rainbow Tick accreditation began in late 2024 and means Junction is embedding inclusive practices across all programs and locations.

“Everything has been approached with that inclusive mindset,” Business Development Manager Colleen Tait says.

“It’s a commitment to cultivating a deeper understanding and a welcoming environment, ensuring LGBTQI+ people are seen, affirmed and treated with dignity, respect and care when accessing our services as volunteers or as employees of Junction.”

Today, signs of inclusion are visible throughout all Junction offices and residential care homes, signalling to clients and the community that Junction is a safe and friendly organisation.

Junction has reviewed and updated policies, procedures, and program delivery.

Every action, from recruitment ads and interview questions to program evaluations, reflects inclusivity principles.

Foundational LGBTQI+ ­inclusion training is integrated into Junction’s onboarding process.

Regular staff surveys help identify further training and support needs to sustain continuous growth in confidence and skills.

“Having the rainbow flag is wonderful, but truly living those values makes the difference,” Colleen says.

A key achievement has been the establishment of a Junction Pride Group.

The group provides lived‑experience insight into organisational decisions, including the design of Junction’s new building and its approach to community engagement.

Finance Manager Joel Krautz says the Pride Group will ensure Junction is a positive participant in community events and activities.

“We’ll be out in the community, flying the Junction flag,” he says.

The formal accreditation process will involve a thorough self-assessment, submission of evidence, and an external audit.

Junction’s aim is to achieve full Rainbow Tick status by December 2026.

The Rainbow Tick journey reflects Junction’s vision to build strong, thriving communities where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.