A good book can start a conversation. A shared experience can turn it into a connection.
GRAI is bringing both together through Pride in Service Book Club, a new project for LGBTQIA+ current and former Australian Defence Force members, Defence families and allies.
The project builds on the success of GRAI’s Queer Book Club, which is now in its sixth year and has attracted more than 1,300 members.
GRAI secured funding from Defence Member and Family Support, a branch of the Commonwealth Department of Defence, to deliver the project, which will launch in Rockingham during Perth’s Pride Month.
GRAI Chair David Gibson said the book club would create a welcoming space where people could connect through stories and shared experiences.
“Defence life brings its own experiences, friendships and challenges. Pride in Service offers a relaxed way to connect with others who understand both the LGBTQIA+ community and Defence life,” Gibson said.
“A book gives us somewhere to start. The conversation, and the connections that follow, belong to the people around the room.”
For Gibson, a former Army officer, the project also carries personal significance.
“I know how much the friendships and shared experiences of service can mean. This project is an opportunity to build connections across generations, whether you are serving today, are a veteran or are part of a Defence family.”
The club will meet on the third Thursday of each month from December 2026 at the Goldsworthy Veterans’ and Families’ Centre, 65 Dixon Road, Rockingham.
Book selections will explore LGBTQIA+ and military service experiences, beginning with The Absolutist by John Boyne, a novel exploring queer desire, friendship, courage and betrayal against the backdrop of the First World War.
There is no pressure to speak, finish the book or attend every month. Participants can join for a book that interests them or become regular attendees.
“We’re grateful to Defence Member and Family Support for funding this project and recognising the value of connection for LGBTQIA+ Defence members and families,” Gibson said.
“Partners and families are part of the story too. We want people to know there is a chair for them.”
The choice of John Boyne as the first selection may be seen as a bold one. Last year, the Polari Prize, one of the UK’s most prominent LGBTQIA+ literary awards, was cancelled after several nominees withdrew in protest at Boyne’s inclusion.
Boyne, a gay author best known for his 2006 novel The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, which was later adapted into a film, has attracted controversy for comments about transgender issues and for publicly supporting author J.K. Rowling.
His 2019 novel My Brother’s Name is Jessica attracted criticism from some transgender activists and commentators, who argued that aspects of the book and Boyne’s public comments misrepresented transgender experiences.
While controversial, the author has maintained a prolific publishing career. His 2026 release The Weight of Angels is his 19th adult novel. He has also published seven books for younger readers, along with novellas and a short-story collection.
Find out more at grai.org.au/pride-in-service or email info@grai.org.au to register your interest.
