_We shouldn't have to announce our sexuality

Growing up going to catholic school in the early 2000s in Coffs Harbour, I felt different. I couldn’t put my finger on exactly what it was, and I had never been exposed to any queer culture.

It wasn’t until I was 18, I’d left home and was living with a friend and her family in Brisbane, that I realised I was gay. She had lots of gay friends, and I guess she was testing the water, and suggested we go to a gay bar. When we got home, I cried as everything clicked into place.

She understood and consoled me. She told me that it was okay, and I would be just fine.

I phoned my mum late one evening and told her I thought I was bisexual. It seemed easier to give her some false hope that I might be attracted to a girl one day. It felt like a better way to break the ice.

She was totally cool about it. She just wanted me to be happy and safe. I don’t think it was a huge shock. While I was athletic, I was a very creative kid who was more into drama which can sometimes fall into that pre-conceived stereotype.

My parents are divorced, so I told my dad separately. I texted him the day before he drove me down to Sydney to start a new job as a flight attendant with Virgin. That was an awkward drive.

He wasn’t entirely comfortable with it initially but that was more to do with not being educated on the topic or being unsure how to bring it up in conversation, but over time he’s accepted the relationships I have had and will often ask how my partner is.

So, after all the horror stories I'd heard from friends who had been kicked out of home, coming out was a positive experience for me.

My brother is gay as well. But he never felt the need to announce it. We shouldn’t have to.He just casually dropped his partner’s name into the conversation one day.

I was a flight attendant for seven years. Another stereotype, and I found that people would often make assumptions about my sexuality. But I think the aviation industry is much more accepting, but we still have work to do in the property industry.

It really helps when we have a network and a voice. When senior leaders are accepting and visible advocates for change, it encourages everyone to bring their whole selves to work.

My advice to anyone coming out is to take your time. Don’t feel any pressure but surround yourself with people who will support you no matter what. There are so many resources available to help you and to help educate anyone you know too.

- Daniel Groth

At Knight Frank we strive to create a workplace that is not only safe and healthy, but allows our people to be their authentic selves, and fosters diversity, equity and inclusion. See our CSR commitment for more information.

We encourage you to check out the below resources and support services available.

• QLife: The QLife family includes hundreds of highly experienced LGBTQIA+ staff and volunteers Australia-wide. If you’re looking to connect with someone to explore what’s going on in your life, they are here to take your call or webchat 3pm – midnight every day!
• Rainbow Families: Supporting, celebrating, empowering and advocating for Rainbow Families at every stage of their lives. Rainbow Families is a voice for those lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) parents and their kids that mainstream society often neglects, forgets, ignores and discriminates against.
  
  
• Gidget Foundation: Support for LGBTQI families and same sex parents
  
  
• Minus18: Supporting LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. This page here is for friends & family of LGBTQIA+ youth.
  Better Pride: Speak with members or allies of the LBGTQIA+ community.
  
  
• ReachOut: Support Services Info including state specific information.