Entrenched omission: Reproductive education shortfalls in the Australian curriculum and LGBTQIA+ invisibility
Abstract
This chapter examines the state of sexual health and reproductive biology (SH&RB) education in the Australian Curriculum (AC). Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, it explores how the current curriculum marginalises LGBTQIA+ people by failing to recognise the diversity of gender/sex and sexual identities. In comparing Australia’s approach with the Swedish National Curriculum (SNC), indexing the AC’s sequencing with biopsychosocial milestones, and critically analysing its limitations, evidence-based recommendations for curriculum reform are presented. Recommendations include early integration of gender theory, mandating scientifically accurate and LGBTQIA+ inclusive and content throughout schooling, and strategies to ensure sexuality education explicitly addresses the needs of all students. The chapter argues that inclusive SH&RB education is essential for improving life outcomes and enhancing equity, despite being deficient in the AC. It concludes with a call for urgent action from policymakers, educators, and school communities to implement structural reforms that prioritise inclusion and evidence in SH&RB education.
Keywords
biology education, Curriculum, diversity, inclusion, LGBTQIA+, sexuality education
Document Type
Book Chapter
Date of Publication
1-1-2026
Publication Title
Rainbow Futures in Research and Teaching: Queering Methodology and Pedagogy in Australia
Publisher
Emerald
School
School of Science
ISBN
[9781837082698, 9781837082681, 9781837082704]
Copyright
free_to_read
First Page
147
Last Page
173
Recommended Citation
Fimognari, N., & Vrankovich, S. (2026). Entrenched omission: Reproductive education shortfalls in the Australian curriculum and LGBTQIA+ invisibility. In J. Chen, W. Cumming-Potvin, & B. McKenzie (Eds.), Rainbow futures in research and teaching: Queering methodology and pedagogy in Australia. Emerald Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83708-268-120261026