LGBT roundtable extended

Queensland’s Minister for Community Services Minister Karen Struthers last week announced the extension of the state’s LGBT roundtable until the end of 2012.

“The Bligh Government is committed to ensuring LGBT people have a bright future in Queensland,” Struthers said.

“The LGBT roundtable ensures government better responds to the needs of all people, including LGBT communities.

“A great deal of valuable work has already been done by the roundtable, including identifying ways to reduce suicide and self-harm in LGBT communities.”

Struthers expressed concern that 82 percent of LGBT people in Queensland had experienced homophobic violence or harassment in their lifetime.

“This is unacceptable, which is why the Queensland Government is working hard to encourage fairness and recognition of LGBT people,” Struthers said.

The Government established the roundtable in 2010 to assist it in considering sexuality and gender identity issues in the development of departmental policies, programs and services.

The roundtable is made up of representatives of the Queensland Association for Healthy Communities, transgender groups, youth and community activists, Queensland Department of Community Services staff and staff from other agencies. It participated in reference and advisory groups on services for seniors and young women’s issues in 2011.