At Maroochydore State High School, Luke McCormack has been a conduit of inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ student community.

Luke has dedicated himself to fostering a supportive environment and is the driving force behind PRISM (Proud Identities & Supporters at Maroochydore State High School). Introduced during school assemblies six years ago, PRISM has become a successful meeting group for LGBTQIA+ students and allies. Two lunch breaks each week, Luke runs separate sessions for juniors and seniors, discussing everything from gender identity to personal victories and challenges.

Rainbow steps lead up to the PRISM room. A dedicated team including the guidance officer and another teacher currently join Luke for discussions celebrating student’s identities and promoting acceptance. Each week, around forty students engage in the sessions.

Under Luke’s guidance, the school has embraced several celebrations of diversity, including IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia) where faces are painted in rainbow colours, and Wear It Purple Day, featuring free-dress and purple-themed canteen food.

Luke has also led ‘Breathe’, a program aimed at improving school attendance and well-being for disengaged Year 9 girls. By discussing life skills and offering workplace visits, the program has significantly improved attendance and engagement among its participants.

Outside school, Luke is a unique member – being the only teacher – of the LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Professionals Network Sunshine Coast, where he collaborates with a group of professional advocates for the LGBTQIA+ coastal community. Luke has also helped other schools establish LGBTQIA+ groups.

In his nomination, colleagues relayed that Luke's presence ensures all students, regardless of their background, feel seen, valued, and celebrated.