Established by the City’s Youth Development team in 1996, GASP was one of the first LGBTQIA+ youth support services in Australia at the time.

GASP provides a safe and inclusive space for young people aged 12 to 25 to be their authentic selves, celebrate, have fun and meet new people.

Today, GASP delivers two weekly, age-based social groups from The Nest Youth Hub, providing LGBTQIA+ young people with a safe and inclusive space to build social connections, participate in activities, and engage in the planning and delivery of community events such as IDAHOBIT and Wear It Purple. These opportunities support young people to connect, participate, and feel a strong sense of belonging. A current participant shared, “GASP is a place where I can come and hang out, make new friends and feel free to be me”.

Beyond the social group, the Youth Development team also leads a community of practice which provides support and resources to local secondary school staff seeking to establish or maintain Stand Out groups for LGBTQIA+ students and their allies. This work strengthens inclusive school environments, builds capacity across the community, raises awareness, and connects young people to GASP.

The event at The Nest Youth Hub welcomed more than 44 current and former GASP participants, workers, and key stakeholders and featured a guest panel, a 30-year GASP history timeline, a photo wall, a new art mural, and entertainment.

The celebration helped to wrap up the City’s Pride Month festivities, which included an Open Mic night, Short Film screening night, Q&A alumni evening, art workshops, Pride Expo and a combined GASP/QHub Drop-In party.

Coming up, we’ll host our annual Wear It Purple youth event in late August. Young people interested in attending can contact GASP.

Councillor Emma Sinclair, chair of the LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee:

GASP was a groundbreaking program when it started in 1996, at a time when LGBTQIA+ young people faced widespread invisibility and stigma that impacted their health and wellbeing.

Well done to all current and former participants and workers for creating a safe, affirming space over the years where young people feel seen and supported.

GASP’s legacy can’t just be measured by the number of people coming through the doors, but in the confidence, resilience and pride that it has helped generations of young people to build.

GASP works to ensure that the strength and diversity of LGBTIQA+ young people is valued and celebrated.

If you’re a young person interested in getting involved with GASP or know someone who might be, find out how to get involved.