26 October is Intersex Awareness Day

16 October 2026
intersex awareness banner
Intersex people are born with natural variations in sex characteristics, which can include chromosomes, hormones and/or genitals. These characteristics do not fit typical definitions of male or female bodies.

Intersex people often face stigma, discrimination, and medical interventions without consent.

26 October is a chance to focus on continuing advocacy and education for intersex individual rights, physical autonomy and self-determination.

To address the ongoing discrimination and stigma that intersex people often face, the Victorian Government passed the Health Safeguards for People Born with Variations in Sex Characteristics Act 2026 in February 2026. This important legislation will support better care and treatment decision making for people born with variations in sex characteristics, particularly infants and young children.

Intersex Awareness Day is all about listening and learning about the lived experiences of intersex people.

Take the day to learn, support and raise awareness of Victoria’s intersex community. They deserve our respect and support, and to be celebrated for who they are.

For more information, please visit InterAction for Health and Human Rights.