It is definitely an area that needs some help. For example, a few weeks ago at a bar called Boho, a bunch of men where there with their wives, these men were choosing to cross dress. They were banned from the bar and a new rule of 'no trans people' was instated, and management had no real reason to do this.

When this was reported on in the media the men were described as cross dresser, trannies, transvestites and transgender. Obviously the people at the local paper don't know what they're really talking about, but it brings to light many different things that require attention- from basic education through to support of rights for all people, trans* inclusive.

The local 'gay' night club and broader queer community is a lot more accepting than that, but the Boho incident definitely highlights the bad from the good in a (what I hope is a) minority.

In regards to what kind of support there is, my own knowledge is limited- something I'll be needing to look up on once uni resumes. I met a few trans* people my age when I was attending a local youth group, we hung out a few times but that was more social than informational. There are definitely support and referral services at The Second Story, a community health organisation. I think, but am not 100% that there is a trans* group here too. Again, I'll be needing to look into that v. soon!

The happiest time in my life was when I was asked out for the first time in a pansexual relationship - I grew to respect and love without any gender inhibitions - I was able to love without restraint.