Minus18 Discord Server FAQs
September 17, 2024
The Minus18 Youth Discord Server is a private community hub for LGBTQIA+ youth aged 12 to 19 to chat, hang out and stay connected after Minus18 events.
The server is currently only open during our fortnightly DISCORD HANGOUT event, held on Tuesdays from 4.30pm to 6.30pm AEST/AEDT.
Outside of these hours, the discord is “closed” to chats and comments! This makes sure the Minus18 Crew is always online to moderate when we open the server up!
Want to know more? Here's the rundown for young people!
How do I join the server?
To join the Minus18 Youth server, come along to a Minus18 event – an in-person event or a digital event. At each event, we have a special QR code that gives you access to the SIGNUP survey. Once you’ve filled this in you’ll receive an email from the Minus18 crew with a unique server invite code within one week of your submission.
We host in-person and digital events to make sure there is an opportunity for everyone to join the server no matter where they are based!
What if I can't make an event?
For now, we are only opening the server to youth who have attended events to keep the server as safe as possible. We host in-person events in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide, and regular digital events on Zoom – so there's always a chance to attend and then join Discord. We're always createingmore opportunities for everyone to come along to an event.
What kind of activities and discussions happen on the server?
Expect loads of fun chat channels that range in topics! These include books and TV chats, a special interest space, gaming, art, music and more!
We also host fun competitions, post event photos and play games like Gartic Phone together!
What are Discord Hangouts?
We host a fortnightly Discord Hangout every second Tuesday from 4.30pm to 6.30pm (Melbourne Time)!
Outside of these times, the server is “closed” to chatting, but you can keep engaging with reactions and read through the chat history. We currently only open the server at set times to ensure there is always Minus18 crew online with all users to moderate and keep the server a safe and supportive environment.
What if I turn 20?
Sadly, if you are no longer in the 12 to 19 age range you will have to leave the server. The Minus18 team will also monitor this and give you a gentle reminder.
Do I need a Discord account?
Yes! You'll need to create a free Discord account if you don’t already have one. Once you’ve signed up, click on the unique invite link we sent you (if you haven’t got one, come to an event!) and you’ll be taken to the server. You’ll have to read and agree to the server rules before you can attend a hangout.
What if I need help or support while using the Discord server?
There's a dedicated support ticket channel that directly messages the Minus18 admin and youth worker crew! You'll be able to access these ticket channels at any time (including outside hangout hours).
I’ve never used Discord! Can you help me learn?
Absolutely! We recommend checking out the Beginner's Guide to Discord to get started. Once you’re on the server, if you need help navigating, we can support you!
Server Rules
- Treat everyone with respect and care! We're all here to have fun and make some friends
- Keep your Discord profile appropriate! Remember this is a space for everyone!
- Do not spam - avoid sending excessive messages, emojis or commands > spam makes it harder for everyone to join the chat
- Don't share personal identifying information. As always, practice online safety by not sharing any personal information, or asking anyone else to. E.g. full name, DOB, email address, IRL address, school!
- Sharing your socials – you are allowed to share your social media handles (e.g. insta, TIKTOK) but please do so carefully! Remember to always practice online safety team. Please don’t share any other groups or servers in the space
- No inappropriate language - You know the drill! Don’t swear or use any language that may be harmful to others. If you're not sure about what language is classed inappropriate, head to the "language guide" channel
- Absolutely no bullying, harassment, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, racism or hate speech will be tolerated. If any such content is posted, you will be immediately removed and banned from the server.
- No graphic or inappropriate content! This includes photos, videos, links and messages.
- Rules are subject to common sense SO NO LOOPHOLES!
- A space for celebration and affirmation - this is a space to celebrate your identity! It’s important however not to use the space to speak too deeply on personal situations as this can sometimes be a trigger to others. If you need to speak to someone or need support, hit up our support channel!
- NO TROLLING OR OFFENSIVE HUMOUR HERE
What is trolling: deliberately posting provocative, offensive or inflammatory content. This is usually to try to get a reaction or to disrupt the flow of conversation.
What is offensive humour: In a lot of cases offensive humour perpetuates harmful stereotypes, contributes to a harmful or hostile environment, and alienates individuals or communities. The intent is usually to upset or offend. These can include memes. If you think another user is trolling you can report them in the Support Ticket Channel
For Parents or Guardians
What is Discord?
Discord is a free online platform that allows users to chat via text, voice, and video. It is commonly used to create communities around shared interests. Our server uses Discord to provide a safe space for LGBTQIA+ youth to connect!
How is the server moderated?
The server is only open to chats during allocated “hangout” times every second Tuesday from 4.30pm to 6.30pm AEST/AEDT.
Within those hours, we always have a dedicated Minus18 staff and Youth worker moderating all chats and activities on the server to ensure all interactions between users are safe, respectful and supportive. We also have clear server rules that each user must agree to before they can engage in the space.
All users on the server are young folks who have attended our events – we have strict child safety procedures to ensure it's only young people within our server.
How do I learn more about Discord?
The following links are great resources: