Transgender discrimination case studies

Case studies are provided to help explain the complaints process. They are intended as a guide only and should not be considered or used as legal advice. Outcomes from conciliation vary depending on individual circumstances. Parties to complaints should seek independent legal advice if they require advice about outcomes appropriate to their circumstances. Before lodging a complaint, please speak with an enquiries officer on 1800 670 812.

Employment

Disparaging remarks by colleagues
January 2025: Kylie* is a transgender woman who has Autism.
Terminated after talk with customer on transgender identity
October 2021: Kaylene* is proud of her transgender identity.
Woman is humiliated at work by colleagues during transition
September 2021: Jessie* works in the automotive industry.
Attitude changed in interview
May 2017: Layal* is a transgender woman who applied for a job as a secretary.
Made redundant for being transgender
January 2015: Athanasia* is a transgender woman who worked at a retail company.
Harassment at work
February 2014: Rebecca* is a transgender woman and a nurse.

Goods and services

Embarrassed during airline identity check
October 2024: Jenny*, a young child, was born male but identifies as female.
Childcare refused to recognise transgender mother
November 2019: Dana* is a transgender woman with children attending a childcare centre.
Birth certificate kept only for transgender member
August 2014: Carmen*, a transgender woman applied for membership of a women’s only sport centre.
Called a ‘mate’ and ignored by bus driver
February 2013: Priyanka* is a transgender woman who travels using the bus.

Accommodation

Landlord failed to update records with legal name and gender
June 2022: Chad* is a transgender man renting an apartment.
Rental application denied
March 2021: Kim* is a transgender woman studying at university.

Registered clubs 

Transgender woman told to use club’s male toilets
June 2017: Frieda* is a transgender woman and a member of a golf club.

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