The recognition includes RMIT’s platinum project to expand the LGBTIQA+ Multilingual Terminology Guide, helping people from diverse language and cultural backgrounds find affirming ways to describe identity.
Developed in 2023 by RMIT researchers in the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, the guide includes terminology in English, Arabic, Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional), Korean, Persian, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese.
The online resource was developed in collaboration with the Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council, with support from the City of Melbourne, LanguageLoop and Ananda Training & Consultancy.
The resource responded to a critical gap identified by the project team, who found that many LGBTIQA+ people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and the translators and interpreters who facilitate communication for them to access public services, did not have well-established, inclusive terminology in their own languages.
Since launched, the resource has recorded over 26 thousand views highlighting its growing reach and relevance.
Project lead and RMIT Associate Professor in Translating and Interpreting Dr Miranda Lai said “The terminology resource addressed language barriers around self-expression and communication, which can negatively impact an individual’s sense of belonging and social participation.”
Project co-lead Associate Professor Erika Gonzalez said “The team is now expanding the multilingual website to strengthen links to in-language resources, and deliver targeted training for translators and interpreters in Australia, with a particular focus on gender diversity, multiculturalism and displacement, including support for refugees and asylum seekers from LGBTIQA+ communities.”
Dean of the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies Professor Katherine Johnson said the platinum award recognition spoke to the heart of the School’s mission to reduce inequalities through developing inclusive, practical resources that support diverse communities.
“We’re incredibly proud to have the Translating and Interpreting team’s work in LGBTIQA+ inclusion recognised through this achievement,” Professor Johnson said.
The recognition comes during Pride Month and reinforces RMIT’s commitment to creating a university where LGBTIQA+ people feel safe, respected and empowered to be themselves.
Read more about the 2026 Australian LGBTQ+ Inclusion Awards.
The LGBTIQA+ Multilingual Terminology Guide is free and publicly available at www.rainbowterminology.org.
Read the related open access journal article: Seeing it first-hand: interpreters’ insights from working with LGBTIQA+ individuals settling in Australia.
