LGBTQIA+ ally pledge launches with Mardi Gras X Worldpride

An online training platform launched in February, ahead of Mardi Gras and Worldpride celebrations, helping interested Australians become useful allies to the LGBTQIA+ community.

The Ally Pledge platform offers free short courses and an opportunity to make a formal vow of support, run by LGBTQIA+ charity Minus18 and Skittles.

"We've come so far as a community but there is still so much work to be done," a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and Mars Wrigley Portfolio Director Drew Davis said in a statement.

"As a brand that represents the rainbow all year round, we are continuing to evolve and support in any way we can," he said.

Nearly 60 per cent of the queer community report discrimination based on sexual orientation, according to a La Trobe University study from 2021.

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The study found almost three-quarters of trans and gender diverse participants said their gender identity led to unfair treatment in the community with the past year.

Half the study's respondents said discrimination causes high, or very high, psychological distress.

With the goal of creating a "safer and more inclusive environment", the platform is offering eight short courses on how to support the LGBTQIA+ community, reduce stigma and promote tolerance.