Inclusive council appointment praised
Brisbane City Council’s (BCC) decision to include a LGBTI representative to a council advisory board has won praise from a Queensland advocacy group.
The Brisbane Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer Action Group (BLAG) has congratulated BCC for its appointment of the University of Queensland’s director of The Equity Office, Dr Ann Stewart (pictured), to the Inclusive Brisbane Board.
The Inclusive Brisbane Board is an advisory board addressing community issues associated with development planning, including land use, affordability, community facilities, economic viability, safety, the arts and the community cohesiveness of Brisbane.
Dr Stewart has had an extensive history of involvement with equality organisations and committees. She has held senior positions related to equity for staff and students at three Queensland universities.
“I am delighted and humbled to be selected to represent the LGBTI community on the BCC Inclusive Brisbane Board. Brisbane City Council has an enormously wide responsibility and our Queer community is extremely diverse,” Stewart said.
“I look forward to making contact over the next few months with a wide range of representative groups and individuals to familiarise myself with current relevant issues and concerns.”
BLAG member Martina McGrath said that BCC’s actions deserved praise for engaging with every member of Brisbane’s community.
“This consideration can lead towards the LGBT community achieving equality and inclusiveness in the wider Brisbane society and culture.” she said.
Queensland LGBTI advocate and BLAG member Phil Browne had just as much praise for the new board.
“Engagement with minority communities and discussion of their specific issues will allow all residents to be considered, acknowledged and represented by their local government.” he said.
