When we make sport more inclusive, everyone wins
The results show significant differences between cisgender and transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth.
While 56% of cisgender youth find it easy or very easy to access sport, only 33% of TGD youth report the same experience. TGD young people are much more likely to face barriers when trying to participate.
Bullying and discrimination are also more common for TGD youth, with 60% reporting negative experiences in sport compared to 47.6% of cisgender youth.
TGD youth are five times less likely to be open about their gender identity in sport settings and three in four feel anxious about being accepted or affirmed by others.
Overall, the findings highlight the need for overtly inclusive, affirming, and safe sport environments to support the participation and wellbeing of transgender and gender diverse young people. Sport clubs, organisations, and communities can play a vital role in supporting TGD youth by actively addressing discrimination, by offering trans-affirming programs that prioritise safety, belonging, and enjoyment for ALL young people.
pdf Headspace Ballarat Access to Sport Survey 2025
In headspace
In 2025 headspace Ballarat surveyed 94 Ballarat based young people aged 12-25 to identify barriers that trans and gender diverse young people face when accessing sport.