Delineating the Distribution and Impact of Homelessness Among a Large Sample of LGBTQ + People in Australia

Abstract Introduction LGBTQ+ adults in Australia experience disproportionately high rates of homelessness, a major source of morbidity in this population. Despite this, research into the social distribution and structural drivers of homelessness among LGBTQ+ people remains limited. Methods We analyzed data from a nationwide survey of 6045 LGBTQ+ adults in Australia. Using logistic regression models adjusted for age and income, we examined the prevalence and distribution of homelessness and identified factors associated with elevated risk, including gender identity, sexuality, ethnicity, disability status, and experiences of family and intimate partner violence. Results Homelessness was disproportionately reported by trans and non-binary individuals, plurisexual participants, disabled people, multiracial individuals, and those with experiences of family or intimate partner violence. Conversely, cisgender women and Asian participants were less likely to report homelessness. In fully adjusted models, ethnicity, disability, and exposure to violence appeared to explain much of the observed variation. Conclusions Homelessness is a common experience among LGBTQ+ adults in Australia and is unequally distributed across subgroups within the population. Structural and interpersonal factors, including disability and experiences of violence, play a key role in shaping this disparity. Policy Implications Efforts to reduce homelessness among LGBTQ+ populations must recognize the intersecting factors that place certain subgroups at heightened risk. Tailored, trauma-informed, and intersectional policy responses are needed to address the underlying structural drivers of housing insecurity in this community.