Junction Support Services proudly joined communities across Australia and the world in recognising IDAHOBIT – the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia.

Each year on 17 May, IDAHOBIT shines a light on the discrimination still faced by LGBTQIA+ people and celebrates the importance of safety, respect and belonging for everyone.

Across our Wodonga and Wangaratta offices, staff came together for afternoon tea, connection and reflection.

Teams shared colourful rainbow treats, watched a short video on the history and significance of IDAHOBIT, and took time to reflect on how each of us contributes to creating safer, more inclusive spaces in our daily work.

This year’s IDAHOBIT held special meaning as Junction continues progressing through the Rainbow Tick accreditation process.

The day offered a timely reminder of the values at the heart of the Rainbow Tick framework—visibility, cultural safety, inclusive practice and continuous improvement.

“IDAHOBIT is a moment for us to pause and recognise the real impact of inclusion,” said Junction Pride Group Lead Joel Krautz.

“Our Rainbow Tick journey is about more than meeting a standard. It’s about ensuring every young person, family member, staff member and community partner feels safe, respected and affirmed when they walk through our doors.”

Junction’s Rainbow Tick work continues to build momentum, with staff training, policy updates, visible inclusion across sites and the growing Pride Group all contributing to a stronger, more welcoming organisation.

By celebrating days like IDAHOBIT, Junction reinforces its commitment to learning, listening and taking meaningful steps toward greater inclusion—every day, in every program, and in every community we serve.