Community-Defined Competencies for Effectively Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQA+ Young People in Western Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations

Abstract Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people of diverse sexualities and/or gender identities are at markedly high risk for psychological distress and suicidal behaviours. However, they also experience barriers to accessing safe, affirming, and culturally responsive health care. In reference to these findings, many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) advocate for the development of resources to strengthen their capacity for inclusive practice to better meet the needs of diverse clients. The current study aimed to identify competencies for inclusive care with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQA+ young people within ACCO and ACCHO settings. Staff from two Western Australian ACCOs ( n = 15) and national subject matter experts (SMEs; n = 9) took part in a series of yarning-style focus groups and interviews regarding inclusive practice needs and competencies necessary for inclusive practice. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse responses within an Aboriginal guided research process. Five core themes (competencies) were identified: (1) young person-centred care; (2) effective communication and language (3) safety and visibility; (4) non-judgement; and (5) connected services. Together, these competencies emphasise the importance of responsive care that acknowledges young people’s self-determination, as well as their cultural, gender and/or sexual diversities. Findings provide a foundation for developing a competency framework and culturally grounded training resources for ACCO and ACCHOs, particularly within Western Australian service contexts.