Rainbow Families of WA is a collaborative initiative that brings together Gay Dads WA, Playgroups with Pride WA, and Rainbow Families Australia in supporting LGBTIQA+ parents and their children. United by a shared purpose, Rainbow Families of WA’s aim is to create safe, welcoming, and joyful spaces where families can connect, belong, and celebrate who they are.
The Rainbow Families of WA community is built on the belief that every child deserves to grow up in a world where they feel proud of their family and confident in their own identity. When families feel supported, children and parents thrive. That’s why their focus is on building strong connections, sharing lived experiences, and working with others to ensure that rainbow families are recognised, included, and celebrated.
Rainbow Families of WA were proud to contribute to the WA Government’s LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Strategy (currently under development) by making a formal submission. In partnership with the Department of Communities (Communities), they helped create and shape the survey that captured the voices of families across the State, including 10% from regional WA. The final report was very well received, with Communities acknowledging the importance of family recognition, visibility, and safe spaces for children and parents alike.
In recent years, Rainbow Families of WA has brought people together through playgroups, family picnics, and community activities where children can laugh and play, and parents and carers can find friendship and support. They have partnered with local councils, health networks, and community organisations to make services more inclusive and welcoming for families. You can learn more about their work and upcoming opportunities on the Rainbow Families website.
Most inspiring for Rainbow Families of WA has been seeing how these spaces and initiatives create a sense of belonging. Families who once felt isolated now know they are not alone. Children meet others who have families just like theirs, and parents find reassurance in the company of people who understand their journey.
Rainbow Families of WA warmly invite community groups, service providers, and organisations – particularly in the Perth metro area – to connect with them about being part of future community activities. For those in regional or remote WA, they are also very happy to provide input into inclusive event planning and to share resources that can help create safe and welcoming environments for rainbow families in your communities.
There are many resources available to support rainbow families, including a free guide to Supporting and Celebrating Family Diversity in Early Learning Environments Handbook.
If you would like to partner with Rainbow Families of WA, invite them to be part of your community activity, or simply learn more about the support they offer, please get in touch at PaulH@rainbowfamilies.com.au. Everyone can contribute to building stronger, more inclusive communities where every child and every family feels seen, valued, and supported.
Source: https://createsend.com/t/d-9712DC26183A3F692540EF23F30FEDED
