Thank you

On Monday the Senate passed the two remaining Bills in the law reform package aimed at removing practical discrimination against same-sex couples and their children in federal law.

While these Bills still need to ricochet between the houses of parliament for some final touches, for all intents and purposes the GLRL’s 58’08 campaign is about to come to an end. After almost a year of lobbying, community action and policy consultation, de facto recognition of same-sex couples is about to become a reality.

The 58’08 campaign has been one of the Lobby’s largest in both scope and size. With almost 100 pieces of legislation needing to be amended, these reforms will significantly impact upon the day-to-day lives of lesbians and gay men across the country. For the most part these changes will be positive, with equal treatment in areas such as taxation, health care and superannuation meaning an end to discrimination against same-sex couples.

However, this same recognition may disadvantage some in social security. The GLRL will continue working into the new year to ensure these reforms are implemented sensitively and fairly, particularly where people need time to readjust finances.

To claim this victory solely for the GLRL, or even in the name of the 58’08 campaign, would be disingenuous. This monumental step forward for the rights of lesbian and gay Australians is a testament to the work of individuals for decades and more importantly to the strength of our community in the face of discrimination. Over 1000 lesbians, gay men, their friends and family members sent letters to the Attorney-General through our 58’08 website.

Same-sex rights and advocacy groups from all over Australia have worked tirelessly to ensure this legislation got off the ground. And our politicians have shown the principled will to see these reforms pass successfully.

We would like to thank everyone who has been part of the 58’08 campaign this year, as well as everyone who has been part of the struggle for equality for many years previously.
This victory belongs to all of us, gay and straight, and to an Australia which says no to discriminating against anyone on the basis of their sexual orientation.

By GLRL spokesman Peter Johnson. Co-Convenor Emily Gray is on leave.