New voice in politics

A new political party hopes to be the voice of the gay and lesbian community, which it believes is not taken seriously by Labor or the Coalition.

Hear Our Voice was launched last week, but is still seeking 500 members to be eligible to appear above the line on the election ballot.

Although the election is yet to be called, Senate candidate Toni McLennan wrote to gay and lesbian groups asking for supporters to sign up before 15 August.

McLennan said the party would introduce an omnibus bill to recognise de facto same-sex couples across all laws. The party also supports marriage equality for same-sex couples.

The full range of Hear Our Voice policies and registration forms can be read at www.tonimclennan.com.