Labor’s nod to GLBTI health

The sexual and reproductive health needs of the gay and gender diverse communities have been added to the ALP platform-”the party’s central policy document-”for the first time.

The move could pave the way for federal research grants into GLBTI health issues.

Senator Louise Pratt, who authored the shift, told the ALP National Conference that GLBTI people faced unique needs that were neglected under the Howard government.

-œIt can be because of stigma and marginalisation. For example, lesbians have a higher rate of obesity and smoking.

Pratt highlighted that not all medical interventions for transgender and intersex people were available in the public health sector, and state laws governing access and gender recognition were inconsistent.

But today’s push did not commit the Rudd Government to any specific actions or increased funding.

The Labor party also formally opposed state laws that discriminate against lesbian, single and unmarried women in access to reproductive technologies such as IVF.

Pratt said women have historically faced discrimination access to fertility treatment based on their marital status.

-œWhat matters is that it is your infertility that requires treatment and not your relationship status. This amendment is designed to highlight the Labor party does not believe in such discrimination.