Welcome to Rainbow Families
Rainbow families are an important part of the changing definition of family in Australia. This site provides an information, support, networking and resources forum for parents, partners and prospective parents who identify as being GLBTI (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex) and their families, friends and allies.
We invite you to get informed, get support and get active.
The Rainbow Families Council is a volunteer community organization working for same-sex parented families in Victoria. We bring together GLBTI parenting groups, families, children's and family organisations and other allies. We aim to: share information and resources to support families, children and prospective parents; work for social and legal recognition for our children and families; speak out about the diverse realities of our lives; represent the best interests and rights of children living in rainbow families, parents and prospective parents to government and non-government bodies; and encourage families to be visible and proud.
WHAT'S NEW
- The Rainbow Cha Cha with Cha Cha Sam: Music for Big Spirited kids and their grown-ups
Sat 24 and 31 January 2009 10.30-11.15am Northcote Town Hall. See Events page for more info. - Love Makes A Family lets pARTy celebration: The Victorian Parliament has passed the Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill (see below), so we’ve got lots to celebrate and many people to thank. The Love Makes A Family lets pART celebration will be held as part of the Rainbow Families Picnic on Sunday 8th February 2009 from 3-6pm, at the Edinburgh Gardens playground, cnr St Georges Rd and Alfred Cres, North Fitzroy (112 tram, Mel Ref 2C D1). Proudly presented by the Rainbow Families Council. Check the Midsumma Guide for details or check back here shortly for more info. We look forward to seeing you in February to celebrate our amazing achievement!
- 4 Dec 2008 - LAW REFORM PASSES IN PARLIAMENT! Law reform that will remove discrimination for same sex couples in accessing Assisted Reproductive Technology and will provide legal recognition for our families has been passed by Victorian Parliament! The Assisted Reproductive Treatment Bill was passed by the Upper House on 4 Dec. The record of discussion in the Legislative Council (Upper House) here; and the Bill may also be viewed here. The Rainbow Families Council will be creating a fact sheet shortly to help you understand what these changes mean to you and your family.
- 29th Nov 2008: The (AGM) of the Rainbow Families Council was held on 29 November and a new committee was elected. Stay tuned for events planned by the Council for 2009!
The Rainbow Families Council is seeking your valuable input to guide our focus and planning in the coming year, including our 2009 calendar of events. Click on the icon to access our online survey- it's anonymous and will take under 5 minutes to complete.
- October 2008 The Australian Psychological Society has released a literature review of family studies relevant to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans parented familes (LGBT families), with a focus on children's well being and best interests. The literature indicates that it is family processes (such as the quality of parenting and relationships within the family) that contribute to determining children's well-being and 'outcomes', rather than family structures per se - such as the number, gender, sexuality and co-habitation status of parents.
