The status quo is dead. It’s time to embrace change.
Archie Beetle is a bold voice and respected thought leader in LGBTIQA+ advocacy and the founder and CEO of Queer Town, a queer-led organisation transforming workplaces, schools, and communities through innovative training, education programs, and digital content. With clients including the City of Melbourne, Federation Square, and Cotton On Group, Queer Town is reshaping the future of inclusion in Australia.
Archie’s journey began as a student at Melbourne High School, where they co-founded one of Australia’s first school-based queer support groups, igniting a lifelong commitment to creating safer, more inclusive spaces for people from all walks of life. Over the past 16 years, Archie has emerged as a trusted advocate and leader, establishing LGBTIQA+ working groups at iconic institutions like Melbourne Museum and Scienceworks.
Known for their authentic storytelling and sharp wit, Archie’s relatability has become their secret weapon for breaking down barriers and building bridges—even with the most sceptical audiences. Whether addressing packed auditoriums in metro cities, facilitating workshops in regional and remote communities, or leading virtual panels across Europe and Singapore, Archie creates judgment-free spaces where empathy thrives, and action begins.
Backed by an evidence-based approach, Archie’s work has earned widespread recognition, including Queer Town being named the 2024 LGBTIQA+ Melbourne Award Winner. Their legacy, however, is defined by the tangible change they inspire—from the Australian Ballet updating class and job titles to Supré introducing gender-inclusive change room signage and GMHBA implementing gender affirmation policies.
Archie’s ability to educate, inspire, and mobilise audiences makes them an in-demand speaker for organisations looking to create meaningful, lasting progress toward inclusion.
Talking Points
Breaking Barriers: A Path to True LGBTIQA+ Inclusion
True inclusion requires action, not just intention. Archie shares their lived experience and advocacy expertise to highlight the systemic barriers faced by LGBTIQA+ individuals and provides actionable steps organisations can take to break these down. This session offers real-world insights into creating safer, more equitable spaces for everyone.Breaking Barriers: A Path to True LGBTIQA+ Inclusion
Key Takeaways:
- Actionable strategies for creating inclusive policies and cultures.
- A better understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTIQA+ individuals.
- Real-world examples of impactful outcomes from inclusion efforts.
The Power of Inclusive Leadership
Leadership today must go beyond traditional models to create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered. Archie explores the principles of inclusive leadership, drawing from their experience as the founder of Queer Town and a thought leader in LGBTIQA+ advocacy. This talk equips leaders with tools to inspire inclusivity while driving measurable change in their organisations.The Power of Inclusive Leadership
Key Takeaways:
- Practical strategies to embed inclusivity into leadership practices.
- Insights into the tangible benefits of inclusive leadership, including innovation and retention.
- Tools to build trust, empower teams, and foster belonging.
The Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion aren’t just ethical priorities—they’re business imperatives. Archie explains how fostering inclusion drives innovation, improves employee retention, and enhances organisational performance, all while creating meaningful social change.The Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion
Key Takeaways:
- Insights into the tangible benefits of diversity for organisations.
- Strategies to build inclusive cultures that foster innovation.
- Tools to communicate the ROI of diversity and inclusion to stakeholders.
The Intersection of Identity: Gender, Mental Health, and Belonging
Identity and mental health are deeply intertwined, particularly for individuals navigating societal pressures around gender. Archie delves into the challenges faced by LGBTIQA+ individuals and explores how organisations can create spaces that promote authenticity, safety, and well-being.The Intersection of Identity: Gender, Mental Health, and Belonging
Key Takeaways:
- Insights into the mental health challenges faced by marginalised communities.
- Strategies for creating affirming and supportive environments.
- Tools to address unconscious bias and foster belonging.
The Role of Storytelling in Advocacy and Change
Stories have the power to shift perspectives and inspire action. Archie shares how authentic storytelling has been central to their advocacy work, offering guidance on how to use personal stories to build empathy, mobilise audiences, and drive meaningful change.The Role of Storytelling in Advocacy and Change
Key Takeaways:
- Insights into the power of storytelling as a tool for advocacy.
- Strategies to craft and share impactful personal stories.
- Tools to use storytelling to inspire action and empathy.
Young People Driving Change
Young people are at the forefront of change, but they need the right support and resources to thrive. Reflecting on their own early advocacy, Archie offers insights into how schools, organisations, and communities can empower young leaders and advocates to create meaningful change.Young People Driving Change
Key Takeaways:
- Strategies to create environments that empower young leaders.
- Insights into the unique challenges and opportunities for young advocates.
- Tools to nurture resilience, confidence, and leadership in young people.
How to Foster Belonging in Schools and Communities
Belonging is at the heart of every thriving school and community. Archie explores the steps educators and community leaders can take to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe.How to Foster Belonging in Schools and Communities
Key Takeaways:
- Actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity in schools and communities.
- Insights into the long-term benefits of belonging on mental health and performance.
- Tools for recognising and addressing exclusionary practices.
Video
QT Chats: A Webinar Series on Creating Inclusive Workplaces
Join Archie Beetle (they/them), Queer Town's CEO, and Abbey Gladysz (she/her), HR Leader from Novatti as they unpack how to create an inclusive workplace culture for trans and gender-diverse employees. From developing tailored training programs to responding to backlash, hey’ll explore the challenges, successes, and practical steps that helped Novatti to successfully support a team member transition in the workplace.Wear it Purple Day: History & Tips
Hear firsthand from Queer Town's founder & CEO, Archie Beetle (they/them), as they walk you through the history of Wear It Purple Day, why we celebrate it today and what you can do to show your support.We cannot thank Archie enough! Our team learnt so much about different identities and how we can be respectful and open-minded - keeping in mind that even though we might not always get it r ... keep reading Supré
Wow! Archie’s workshop was genuine, honest, vulnerable and engaging. They presented challenging information in an open and non-intimidating way. Our entire team was captivated. I would highly recommend Archie and Queer town to other organisations.
Archie’s workshops contain a message that manages to reach all with content anyone can relate to combined with humour, style and colour but also with the realities, those hard truths of why inclusion is essential in every workplace. Archie’s unique perspective shared through personal storytelling has a profound and lasting impact on those attending. So many of our team members provided feedback on the experience and how it had fundamentally changed their knowledge and perspective.
Archie’s workshops are informative, well paced and fun. They will help you understand LGBTIQA language, terminology, pronouns and more! To create inclusive and diverse environments we must open our hearts, open our minds and actively commit to promoting equality for all human beings. Archie is just the person to help facilitate this.
