Australia is a welcoming and friendly destination for gay and lesbian travellers, with much to see, do and experience.  From the vast outback to our many festivals and celebrations, Australia has something for every gay and lesbian visitor.  Most major cities have a gay or lesbian part of town we call home and in some instances like Daylesford in country Victoria there are significant gay and lesbian populations.

Generally Australia is a tolerant society and homosexuality is widely accepted however public displays of affection and non conformist behaviour may still result in some threat.  Like many western countries this may be more apparent in urban fringe or rural areas.

Consenting sex between persons of the same sex is legal in all main land Australian states and territories and the island state of Tasmania.  There are variations to the age of consent; Queensland and Northern Territory -18 years, South Australia, and Tasmania -17 years and in Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia 16 years.

Visas
Visitors to Australia require a visa, except New Zealanders.  Check with your travel agent or local Australian consulate, embassy or high commission for details.  Note – Australia does not recognize same sex marriage and married gay and lesbian couples traveling together will not be eligible to claim this status.