The Project aimed to determine the 'campus climate' with respect to sexuality, among both staff and students, to identify the key attitudes and behaviours which give rise to discrimination and to identify key issues faced by UWA gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered and intersex (GLBTI) staff.  This initiative was timely given that it‘s implementation anticipated the passing of legislation to incorporate gender identity and sexual orientation into the scope of the WA Equal Opportunity Act in late 2001 and 2002 respectively.

A representative sample of students from the faculties was surveyed.  Through a series of statements, students reported their experiences with, attitudes toward and level of awareness of GLBTI people and their issues.  The results of the survey revealed that UWA is generally a positive environment for GLBTI people, but there remain a number of sexuality concerns which needed to be addressed.  A key area of concern was that while most students reported having heard derogatory remarks made about GLBTI persons, few had spoken out against those comments.  Many students, particularly young heterosexual males, were uncomfortable with public displays of affection by GLBTI people and negative stereotyping of gay men and lesbians still occurred.  Students reported a low level of awareness of transgender issues.

Staff perceptions were assessed through two informal forums and the results of these forums also revealed that UWA is generally a positive environment for GLBTI people.  Both GLBTI and non-GLBTI staff members reported that discrimination and harassment still occurred in some areas and that there was a need for greater awareness of GLBTI people and their related issues.

The Rainbow Project Report recommended that staff development programs address sexuality and that a network of advocates for GLBTI staff and students be established.  This recommendation led to the development of the Ally Network  in 2002.