Victoria to get educated

An education roadshow detailing 85 federal law reforms which end discrimination against Australian same-sex couples is set to hit Victoria early next week.

The Wear It With Pride campaign has been rolled out across the country to educate the gay and lesbian community on what the changes to the law will mean for them.

ALSO Foundation CEO Crusader Hillis said while there is still work to be done to extend GLBTI rights, it’s important the community is aware of changes that have been made.

“It is important we take the time to understand and celebrate what we have achieved so far,” he said.

“We have by no means got everything we need in terms of federal law reform for same-sex couples and trans people … these new laws are a very important milestone for human rights in this country.

“I encourage everyone to come along to one of the Victorian education sessions and visit the Wear it with Pride website and make themselves aware of these significant changes that affect our lives.”

The Wear It With Pride education sessions will run across Victoria from June 3 – 6.

The Q&A-style format will allow the community a chance to ask questions on the changes in areas such as employment entitlements, privacy rights, tax, superannuation, child support and insurance.

The campaign has already had a number of high-profile backers and a series of T-shirts has been designed to celebrate the reforms.

In Victoria, sessions will be run by the Victorian AIDS Council, the Country Awareness Network, the Anti-Violence Project of Victoria and the ALSO Foundation.

Sessions will take place in Morwell on June 3; Melbourne city on June 4, with an opening address from federal finance minister Lindsay Tanner; Prahran on June 5 with an address from the federal Member for Melbourne Ports, Michael Danby; Bendigo on June 6; and Shepparton on June 6.

For session locations and times, visit the ALSO Foundation website.

info: Visit www.wearitwithpride.com.au
or www.also.org.au