WA gay couples to be recognised

Gay and lesbian couples in Western Australia can have their relationships registered now after a local council in inner-city Perth established a register this week.

The City of Vincent passed a motion on Tuesday night to create the state’s first relationship register for both gay and straight couples.

It is based on the existing registers in states such as Victoria, Tasmania and the ACT but it similar to the Melbourne City register.

City of Vincent Mayor Alannah MacTiernan said the move was in support of marriage equality.

“This process confers no legal rights, however it can be used in a variey of legal processes, from will to immigrations or property settlement,” she said.

Gay and Lesbian Community Services WA chair Davina Morley said the sentiment and recognition was very important for LGBTI people.

“Potentially any form of relationship recognition could have positive implications, such as proving de facto status for medical and legal processes, particularly if biological family is being discriminatory towards the same sex partner,” she said.

“The City of Vincent has always been progressive, and I think the sentiment of inclusion and recognition is very important, and while it may not have the certain legal ramifications, there could be a flow on effect for the wellbeing of LGBTIQ Western Australians.”

Vincent councillor John Carey proposed the council consult with the community earlier this year, receiving 25 submissions in support of the register. No submissions opposed the move.