Objective The National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Ageing and Aged Care Strategy was introduced by the Commonwealth Government in 2012. The present study explored perceptions of the first Aged Care Champions (trained employees) of the opportunities, challenges and barriers to implementing the Strategy in Queensland.

Methods The present study was an exploratory study of Champions who were nominated by their providers to build capacity around the Strategy for introduction into their organisations. The Champions (n = 62) were surveyed before commencing their training programs. Quantitative and qualitative material was collected on how the Champions perceived the introduction of the six standards within their organisation.

Results Champions perceived that there were opportunities to improve inclusivity, leverage organisational support and increase training and support to staff. Key challenges identified were internal attitudes and values, a lack of resources and a need for training and networking. Significant barriers included a lack of management support, resistant staff and pre-existing prejudicial values.

Conclusions Providers and practitioners can leverage the opportunity to increase organisational levels of inclusivity, demonstrate organisational support to improve outcomes for clients and stakeholders and, importantly, provide staff training and development critical to the successful implementation of the Strategy.