LGBTIQ+ Travel in Australia

with Untamed Escapes 

Australia is an extraordinary and diverse place to explore — from the vast outback to pristine coastal escapes, and everything in between. But for many in the LGBTIQ+ community, feeling truly safe and welcome while travelling is just as important as the destination. 

At Untamed Escapes, inclusion is more than a policy — it’s a promise. That’s why we’re proud to be the first tour operator in Australia to receive the prestigious Welcome With Pride accreditation. Backed by research from over 1,000 LGBTIQ+ travellers, this program ensures our tours are safe, inclusive, and genuinely welcoming. 

Travel is about connection, freedom, and belonging. Yet research shows that many LGBTIQ+ travellers have hidden their identity on holiday. That’s not the kind of experience we want anyone to have. 

Our team took action. Almost every member of Untamed Escapes — from guides to management — has completed Welcome With Pride training. This means inclusive language, respectful communication, and a warm welcome are part of every experience. 

As our Director Craig “Hassie” Haslam says: 

“It’s our responsibility to ensure every traveller feels welcomed and respected. Language and communication matter.” 

Culture & Inclusion are one of the five pillars of our Roadmap to Regeneration. Our new Inclusion Statement captures what this means in practice: 

“At Untamed Escapes, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and celebrated… We don’t just welcome you — we value you. We support you. We’re glad you’re here.” 

This commitment goes beyond words. It’s embedded in guide training, in partnerships, and in the way we create space for every traveller to be their whole self. 

Read our full Inclusion Statement PDF 📎 to see exactly how we’re working to make every journey inclusive. 

Picture camping under a billion stars in the outback. Tasting world-class wines in Margaret River. Learning to surf along breathtaking coastlines. Or joining an Aboriginal cultural tour to connect with Country. 

Our regions and tours are distinctive, and every experience is designed for diverse travellers. Whether you travel solo, with a partner, or with chosen family, you’ll be met with open hearts and inclusive practices. 

And sometimes, the best memories come from spontaneous joy. As one of our guides remembers: 

“I had a guy on board who loved the movie Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. We helped him live out his dream and re-enact the iconic scene where a drag queen stands on top of a bus with her costume flowing in the wind. Of course, our bus wasn’t moving, but we made sure it was windy so it had the effect! He took pictures, loved every second, and it became a highlight of the whole group’s trip across the Nullarbor.” 

Moments like these show that inclusion isn’t just about policies — it’s about creating tours where everyone feels free to express themselves and be celebrated. 

Your journey doesn’t end with a tour. Australia is home to incredible LGBTIQ+ friendly events and festivals where diversity is proudly celebrated. From the iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras to the creative explosion of the Adelaide Fringe Festival, there are countless opportunities to connect with community, art, and culture. 

For those planning a trip, resources like the Australian Pride Network and Welcome with Pride are great places to start. Pairing a tour with one of these events can make your Australian adventure even more memorable. 

For LGBTIQ+ travellers, choosing inclusive tourism operators makes all the difference. With a Welcome With Pride accreditation and a strong inclusion statement, Untamed Escapes proudly stands as an ally and safe space. 

Ready to plan your next journey? Connect with other Welcome with Pride accredited businesses, or for more inspiration, explore Australia.com’s Ultimate LGBTIQ+ Guide to Australia.