Image of three teenagers standing close together and smiling to the camera. The woman on the left has black skin and shaved hair. She is resting her head on the woman in the middle, who has tanned skin and long black hair. The man on the right has light skin and short black hair.

Allyship

Allyship is when you stand up for, support and encourage marginalised people who aren’t given the same opportunities or platforms that you are. Allies can support people across many different identities and communities, including those of different sexualities, genders, and cultures. Being an active ally means consistently learning from others, reflecting on your own values, and acknowledging mistakes when you make them. Here are some resources on allyship to help you show up for people around you and create positive change.

Understanding racism and how to spot it

This guide will help you understand what racism is and why it happens. Learn about different types of racism, and how you can put a stop to it.

What is an LGBTQIA+ ally, and how can I be a good one?

Maybe someone you know has just come out, or you've seen something on TV...here's your starter pack to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.

How to be an ally to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Learn how to be a useful and respectful ally to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Image of Phoebe McIlwraith smiling and looking off camera. She is wearing a shirt that features the Aboriginal flag.

How to ease pressure off mob and share the cultural load

Phoebe shares her experiences of cultural load and suggests how allies can help to ease pressure off First Nations people.

Outback Tom yarns with mob about being a good ally

Yorta Yorta man Tom Forrest aka Outback Tom yarns with First Nations folks about how allies can actively participate in reconciliation and be there for mob.

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5 ways you can call out your mates for sexist behaviour

If you're tired of your mates saying weird stuff about women, here are a few ways you can encourage them to do better.

Three friends standing shoulder to shoulder in colourful clothing on a sunny day looking supportive.

How to support someone with their gender affirmation

Gender affirmation is one aspect of living authentically for gender diverse people. Learn how to support someone with their gender affirmation.

Understanding a different culture

You’re surrounded by different cultures and races everywhere you go. Here are some ways you can understand cultures that are different from your own.

How to support people from different cultural backgrounds

We can all make a difference in stopping discrimination and racism in its tracks. Learn how you can support people from different backgrounds and those who experience racism.

Why cultural appropriation isn't cool

You may have seen the term ‘cultural appropriation’ here and there, but what actually is it? Learn what it is and what the big deal is.

Indian girl smiling at the camera holding rainbow flag and peace sign with her fingers parade behind

How to say NO to discrimination and YES to inclusion

Discrimination happens everywhere, all the time. Here's how to recognise it, and little but powerful things you can do to help!

What reconciliation means to Sancia

National Reconciliation Week means something different for everyone; this is Sancia's story.

Zoe Betar: 'Reconciliation isn't just for a week'

Young Indigenous Australian Zoe Betar shares her thoughts on Reconciliation Week and gives some tips.

NAIDOC Week: Listen, learn and celebrate!

Learn why NAIDOC Week is celebrated each year, and how you can get involved.

Wear It Purple Day

Wear It Purple Day is all about celebrating and supporting LGBTQIA+ young people, and challenging societal attitudes to help shape a better world for us all to live in.

Frequently asked questions about allyship

An ally is someone who actively supports and stands up for people from marginalised or disadvantaged groups, even if they don't belong to those groups themselves. Allyship is all about listening, learning, and using your voice to help create positive change.

Inclusivity is about creating environments where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected. Allyship is the active practice of supporting marginalised groups. Think of inclusivity as the goal, and allyship as one of the ways we help achieve it.

Social equity means ensuring everyone has access to the same opportunities and resources, regardless of their background or circumstances. As an ally, you can help promote social equity by speaking out against unfair treatment and supporting initiatives that create equal opportunities for everyone.

Performative allyship is when someone claims to support a cause but doesn't take meaningful action to create real change. True allyship is more than words – it’s about genuine commitment and actions that help make things better for marginalised groups.