Broad support for law reform

The ALP and the Liberal Party have both given support for federal anti-discrimination laws to cover sexuality and gender identity, ahead of the election.

Last week, federal Shadow Attorney-General George Brandis told Melbourne gay and lesbian radio station JOY94.9 if the Coalition is elected on August 21 it will introduce legislation to include sexual orientation and gender identity in federal anti-discrimination laws.

“The Coalition believes that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation should be included among the categories of discrimination in federal legislation,” Brandis said.

Brandis said he expected the reform would occur in the Coalition’s first term, if elected.

Following Brandis’ comments, ALP campaign spokeswoman Fiona Sugden told Southern Star Labor supported including sexual orientation and gender “status” in federal laws to prevent discrimination.

“The Gillard Government supports the enactment of legislation prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation or gender status, and the removal of such discrimination from Commonwealth legislation,” Sugden said.

If re-elected, the Gillard Government would go ahead with plans to combine the four current federal anti-discrimination laws into a single Act.

Sugden said the Government would consult with stakeholders, however, she stopped short of indicating a timeframe for when the Government would move on the issue.

“If re-elected, as part of this project to harmonise and consolidate federal anti-discrimination laws, there will be an opportunity to examine gaps in our laws and the effectiveness of remedies,” Sugden said.

“The Government will undertake consultation with stakeholders on the proposed single anti-discrimination law.

Australian Coalition for Equality spokesman Rod Swift welcomed support from both major parties but said there is still frustration after years lobbying governments for change.

“We’re talking about a long-time expected reform and the unfortunate thing is every time this issue comes up, it’s being sent off to review or sent off to an inquiry,” Swift told Southern Star.

“It’s simple legislation, it’s been on the table for 15 years. “There should be clear commitment to a timeframe, and not just which term it will occur in, but when it will occur, that it’s a priority or not.”Swift said the issue comes down to political will.

“The real question is which party has the guts to actually make a commitment and actually say they are willing to do it — not that they’re considering — that they’re willing to do it.

“This law reform has languished and one of these two parties has to get serious about GLBTI law reform.”