Information for Players
LGBTQ+ players of all identities and abilities are welcomed across community‑based and competitive tennis opportunities in NSW. Players can engage in social play, structured competitions and inclusive programs designed to be supportive and affirming.
Clubs
Tennis Sydney – Australia’s largest LGBTQIA+ tennis club welcomes players regardless of gender, sexuality, ability or experience. They run Sunday Social sessions and mid‑week competitions throughout the year.
Contact: [email protected]
Amazon Women’s Tennis – A Sydney‑based tennis club and safe space for LGBTQIA+ women that offers social tennis, competitions and coaching experiences.
Contact: Clubspark / Amazon Women’s Tennis / contact
Social Tennis
Sunday Social Tennis — Tennis Sydney
When: Every Sunday, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm (no booking required — just arrive anytime between 12 pm and 5 pm).
Where: Centennial Parklands Sports Centre, Corner Lang Road & Anzac Parade, Moore Park NSW 2021.
Details:
- Social doubles play (rotating partners & opponents).
- Complimentary tea & coffee provided; snacks available for purchase.
- First‑time visitors play free; members and visitors pay small fees for part or full sessions.
- Matches run all afternoon and players are grouped by level where possible.
Tennis Sydney also runs mid-week competitions throughout the year at various courts. Contact the club at [email protected] for schedules and event details.
Competitive Play
For LGBTQ+ tennis players seeking competitive opportunities, there are club-based competitions and Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance (GLTA) sanctioned tournaments that cater to a wide range of skill levels. These tournaments feature singles and doubles events, often structured to ensure fair and inclusive competition for all participants. Notable events in Australia include the GLTA Tennis Sydney Open and the AO Glam Slam, both of which provide opportunities for LGBTQ+ players to compete in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Beyond local events, the GLTA sanctions competitive tournaments worldwide, open to LGBTQ+ players regardless of ranking or nationality, with divisions spanning from beginner to advanced. Examples of these international and national events include:
- Tennis Sydney GLTA Event – Sydney
- Amazon Women’s Tennis Open – Sydney
- Hobart Out Tennis – Tasmania
- Bangkok Pride Tournament
- Various international tournaments in Europe, USA, and Asia
These tournaments not only offer high-quality competitive play but also provide opportunities to connect with the global LGBTQ+ tennis community and participate in social and cultural events surrounding the competitions.
- Check GLTA.net for the full global calendar and registration info (many events run yearly).
- Visit the AO Glam Slam info page for entry deadlines and draw formats during the Australian Open period.
Support & Safety
Clubs and programs operate under Tennis NSW’s inclusion guidelines which are designed to create safe, welcoming, and supportive environments for all participants. These guidelines include clear standards for respectful behaviour, inclusion of transgender and gender-diverse players, and the prevention of bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
Players are encouraged to:
- Speak up or seek help if they experience or witness homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, or any other form of discrimination during tennis activities.
- Access resources on inclusion and transgender participation, which provide practical guidance on navigating club culture, competitions, and social play.
Tennis NSW promotes zero tolerance for discriminatory attitudes and behaviours in tennis, ensuring that all participants are treated with respect.
For confidential support or guidance:
- Tennis NSW Inclusion and Diversity Team: [email protected]
- Member Protection Information Officer: [email protected]
- Tennis Australia Integrity & Compliance Unit (TAICU): [email protected]
Players can also reach out to external LGBTQ+ support services for additional guidance:
- ACON: 1800 063 060 — acon.org.au/mental-health/#lgbti-counselling
- Qlife: 1800 184 527 — qlife.org.au/get-help
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 — lifeline.org.au/gethelp