Why Mitch Brown’s Coming Out Matters for Our Students

The recent announcement from former AFL player Mitch Brown has made history. He is the first male AFL player, past or present, to publicly come out in the league’s 129‑year history. In his interview with The Daily Aus, Brown spoke of experiencing a “feeling of peace, but more importantly, comfort and confidence” since being open about his identity. He also described how, during his playing days, there was a culture marked by hyper‑masculinity, where homophobic remarks were common, and little room existed to explore or express one's true self in a safe way.

Across the AFL community, the response has been overwhelming support. Clubs, commentators, and fans have praised his courage. Organisations like the AFL Players’ Association, Pride Cup, and others have publicly acknowledged what a positive step this is for inclusion in sport.

Why Visibility and Inclusion Are Important for Mental Health

For mental health professionals across contexts, we see first‑hand how important visibility, role models, and inclusive environments are for youth wellbeing. Research shows that young people who identify as queer are at higher risk for anxiety, depression, self‑harm, and suicidal thoughts compared to their heterosexual, cisgender peers. Much of this added risk comes from stigma, discrimination, fear of being “outed”, or feeling they must hide parts of themselves (LGBTIQ+ Health Australia).

On the other hand, when students are in environments where they feel seen, supported, safe to express their identity, and where positive representation exists, there are measurable benefits: increased self‑esteem, fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, greater school engagement, and better overall wellbeing. Inclusive policies, visible LGBTQ+ role models, and supportive peers and adults make a difference (Monash University).

What Do the Numbers Tell Us?

Recent statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicate that among young people aged 16‑24 around 9.5% identify as LGBTIQ+ (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

These numbers mean that in any school setting, there likely are quite a few students who are exploring or have come to understand themselves as queer, whether or not they feel comfortable sharing that.

All students benefit when school is a place where their identities are respected and affirmed.

Implications for Our School

Mitch Brown’s announcement is more than a landmark in sport; it offers students and staff an opportunity to reflect on what we can do here to foster greater inclusion:

• Supporting safe spaces in classrooms, sporting teams, and extra‑curricular groups for all students to be themselves without fear.
• Incorporating visible role models, stories, or discussions that include LGBTQ+ identities, so students know they are not alone.
• Training staff in inclusive practices, respectful language, and how to respond if a student is going through identity related distress.
• Encouraging open discussion about inclusion, respect, and empathy—so that cultural shifts become embedded in everyday school life.

In conclusion, Mitch Brown stepping forward provides a powerful example of authenticity and the positive ripple effects that visibility can have. For many students, seeing someone in public life say “this is who I am, and I belong” can reduce isolation, inspire confidence, and affirm that they too deserve to belong.

If any student ever wants to talk about identity, mental wellbeing, or feeling uncertain our school wellbeing teams are here. You are not alone.

College Counsellors
Allison Flanagan
aflanagan@wmac.com.au

Tia Reardon
treardon@wmac.com.au