#equality australia

[qnewsau]

'They don't talk for us' LGBTIQ+ groups slam discrimination against trans women

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'They don't talk for us' LGBTIQ+ groups slam discrimination against trans women

28 LGBTIQ+ groups have signed a statement rejecting rising divisive politics seeking to discriminate against trans women.

“We don’t want our identities and communities to be used to harm or exclude trans women.”

“And it’s time we had our say.” Equality Australia wrote on social media today.

They have put out the call for the community to send a message of support for trans women.

In a joint statement, 28 groups joined the organisation pledging public support for trans women and their inclusion in our spaces. 

The groups include Dykes on Bikes Melbourne, Midsumma, Dykes on Bikes Sydney, ACON, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Pride WA, Rainbow Families Australia, Shine SA and more.

“We reject damaging public narratives that seek to divide us,” their statement reads.

“And deny the long and connected history of our movement for equality and justice.”

“In recent years, we have seen the rise of a concerted campaign to deny people who identify and live as women of recognition as their true selves.”

“This campaign spreads a false narrative that the existence and inclusion of trans women threatens the safety and well-being of others.

“Our community is supported and strengthened by being more inclusive, not by excluding the marginalised and vulnerable.

“Most LGBTIQ+ people have some personal experience of being excluded, threatened or maligned,

“And trans women have our full support as they bear the brunt of this most recent wave of targeted attacks.

“Trans exclusionary groups do not represent the overwhelming majority of lesbians and the broader LGBTIQ+ community, which is rich with diversity and rightly proud of its strong history of acceptance, diversity and solidarity.

“Our community is rich with diversity and rightly proud of its strong history of acceptance, diversity and solidarity.

“We emphatically stand with trans women today and always.”

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‘Trans women are part of our community’

Much like QNews‘ public letter in July, which has over 1300 signatures, they are calling out this hate, which has no place in our community.

By sharing our voices and stories, we have the opportunity to reclaim the public narrative that has been taken away from us.

Showing support for trans women who are consistently being targeted and misrepresented.

“Young trans women in our communities can experience higher rates of marginalisation, violence and discrimination,” said CEO of Twenty10 Jain Moralee.

“It is of vital importance that all young LGBTIQA+ people, including young trans women, are treated equally, are safe and protected and know that they are valued and affirmed.”

“Public and political discourse that does anything other than that risks further harm to young people in our communities.”

 Dykes on Bikes Melbourne President, T Rex, said, “Trans women are part of our community, full stop.”

“The idea that lesbians and trans women are at odds is not only false, but also harmful.”

“As a lesbian-centred club with deep roots in LGBTQIA+ activism and community, we know our strength has always come from solidarity, not division.

“Our legacy is one of strength, resistance, and standing up for those pushed to the margins, and that includes our trans sisters.

“Trans women have long been part of our rides, our herstory, and our future.

“Trans women are women, and they deserve the same dignity, respect and inclusion as anyone else.

“Some media would have you believe that lesbians are divided over this issue. We’re not.

“The overwhelming majority of us stand for inclusion, not exclusion. 

“To the trans women in our community:  You are seen. You are valued.  We’ve got your back.”

Image by Dean Arcuri

‘Their actions make all women less safe’

One of the major areas we continue to see trans women targeted, excluded and even banned is in sports, both around the world and here in Australia.

Pride Cup CEO Hayley Conway reflected how “lesbian and bisexual women have long been advocates for equality.”

“We have fought back against those in society who try to tell us that women must look or behave a certain, feminine way to be ‘real women’.”

“This position undermines decades of fighting to be treated equally.

“They do not speak for me, and their actions make all women less safe.”

Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown said that “there is a rightly proud lesbian community in this country,

“And we support and strengthen it by being more inclusive, not by excluding the marginalised and vulnerable.”

“LGBTIQ+ groups from around the country have emphatically rejected pitting groups who experience discrimination against each other.

“Trans Australians are under repeated attack, which forces them out of public life and into social isolation,

“And our community stands against these attempts to cause harm and sow division.

“All members of the LGBTIQ+ community deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.”

Image: Wikimedia Commons

We’ve had enough, add your voice

CEO of QTopia Greg Fisher said that at” Qtopia Sydney, we continue to tell stores, through our exhibitions, programs and performances that include trans-lives.”

“We are proud to do so as our trans friends are much respected and loved people in our vibrant community.” 

“We stand firmly with trans people to ensure that hard-fought rights are not eroded,

“That education is prioritised to overcome ignorance and the dangers that arise from it,

“And that respect is afforded to everyone, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.”

Equality Australia are putting the call out to send a message of support to our trans sisters.

Who continue to bear the brunt of cruel commentary and targeted attacks.

Click here to share a message of support. 

The message will be shared anonymously on Equality Australia’s social media.

Only your age, state and how you identify will be listed.

Our community knows what it’s like to be excluded, threatened or maligned.

That’s why we need to use our voice and our platforms to show trans women we have their backs.

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, and community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

Religious exemptions unnecessary & harmful say NT teachers

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Religious exemptions unnecessary & harmful say NT teachers

The Northern Territory union representing teachers say that the reinstatement of religious discrimination exemptions is unnecessary, divisive, and harmful.

Northern Territory Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby introduced an Anti-Discrimination Amendment Bill to Parliament yesterday.

The Bill reinstates an exception for religious schools to hire based on faith and removes the word ‘offence’ from vilification protections.

In 2023, the Northern Territory’s Anti-Discrimination Act was brought in line with community expectations.

With the introduction of this Bill, the Country Liberal Party Government is attempting to “repeal vital protections against hate speech.” Equality Australia say.

“Reinstating an exemption that permits discrimination in religious education.”

The Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) represent teachers and support staff in Northern Territory non-government schools.

They say the reinstatement of religious discrimination exemptions is unnecessary, divisive and harmful.

As faith-based schools have been more than capable of functioning in the absence of these exemptions.

“Indeed, they have done so quite adequately under the legislation which has been in place for the last three years,” IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke said.

“Reinstatement of religious discrimination exemptions in the NT does not reflect modern community values and expectations.”

“Especially given that many faith-based organisations receive public funds.

“Employers still have the opportunity at the point of engagement to determine if an employee is suitable for the position advertised.

“That has always been the case.

“The NT government should be looking to build a better and fairer future for Territorians, not take them backwards.”

Source: Facebook

Discrimination against faith?

Attorney-General Marie Clare Boothby spoke with ABC Radio Darwin’s Adam Steer, saying this Bill will clarify the ability for faith-based schools to prioritise staff who uphold their religious values.

“Many Territorian families choose to send their kids to a school of a religious faith,” she said

“And they want to know that the teachings of that school are of that same faith.”

“The changes will ensure that schools will be able to employ people who have the same faith based on their doctrine without the worry of civil proceedings against them.”

When it was highlighted that this Bill could allow schools to discriminate based on faith and sexuality, Boothby said that the new provision is about conduct instead of attributes.

“It used to say you could discriminate because of sexuality, but we have not reincerted that line,” she said.

“Schools can employ people despite their sexuality, which is their choice to make.”

“What the provision does is allow for schools to be able to employ people based on faith.

“Otherwise, it is discrimination against faith.”

Steer said he spoke to the Catholic Bishop of the Northern Territory, asking for examples of situations where this had occurred under the 2023 Anti-Discrimination Act.

He could not provide any.

Steer put that same question to Boothby.

“There are not any cases before the courts,” she said, “But we want to ensure that never happens.”

Stating the fear of litigation is a cloud that hangs over schools.

Australian Association of Christian Schools chief executive Vanessa Cheng welcomed the reforms.

“We applaud the CLP government for taking this important step to fulfil their election commitment and restore fundamental human freedoms,” she said.

Source: Facebook

No evidence that a new model is needed.

“The previous Act was the result of decades of work by everyday Territorians,” said Sally Sievers, CEO Northern Territory Council of Social Service.

“The process to get to these proposed changes has been opaque, confusing and not a genuine consultation.” 

“The existing model of vilification sets a very high bar and has not been used frivolously.

“There’s no evidence to indicate the need for a new model,

“Nor that the proposed ‘incite hatred’ model will be effective in addressing the vilification experienced by people in our community.

“These changes to the Anti-Discrimination Act will leave Territorians less safe.

“We need to protect what we’ve built together.”

Equality Australia has highlighted that the Bill opens the door to discrimination.

“Imposing a single view of religious doctrines on all staff,”

“Even cleaners or receptionists who have no role in religious teaching,

“Opens the door to discrimination against LGBTQ+ people. “ Equality Australia Legal Director Heather Corkhill said.

“And silences those who support them in our school communities.

“We know from experiences in other states that the incitement-based legal test is completely ineffective against even some of the worst kinds of hate speech.”

“At a time when hate is increasing around the country, including the mobilisation of far-right groups like neo-Nazis,”

“We should be strengthening protections and not weakening them.

“It’s a profound relief that under this legislation, religious schools cannot discriminate on the grounds of sexuality or gender identity,

“Only on the basis of a person’s religious belief or activity.

Teachers and other workers should not face unfair discrimination in religious schools because of who they are or who they love.

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  A post shared by Equality Australia (@equalityaustralia)

CLP’s legislation takes us backwards.

Assistant Secretary for the Australian Services Union (ASU) SA + NT, Ella Waters, said the current law reflects years of effort.

“Territory workers deserve strong protections,” Ella said.

“But the CLP’s legislation takes us backwards, weakening vital safeguards and leaving workers exposed to hate speech and discrimination.”

“Instead of building on reforms that made the Territory a leader in fairness, these changes risk undoing hard‑won progress

“And would leave workers more vulnerable in their workplaces.

“Our current laws reflect years of effort to create safer and more respectful workplaces and communities.

“We will continue to stand with our members to protect fairness and respect,

“And to ensure Territorians are protected from hate speech and discrimination.”

Last year, the Australian Law Reform Commission delivered a major inquiry to the Federal Government on religious schools’ blanket legal exemptions to discriminate.

The report recommended scrapping laws which currently and inexplicably allow religious schools to discriminate against staff and students on the basis of their sexuality, gender identity, marital or relationship status, or pregnancy.

The report also said those schools should be able to preference employment of people who share the same religion, but where “reasonably necessary and proportionate”.

Equality Australia have launched a petition calling on the Northern Territory Government to conduct a proper and comprehensive consultation process before rolling back current protections.

Ensuring that all voices, particularly those from vulnerable and marginalised groups, are heard and considered.

You can find out more about the petition here.

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, and community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

Grover's renewed claims that trans inclusion advocacy is 'against lesbians'

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Grover's renewed claims that trans inclusion advocacy is 'against lesbians'

Recently, we published an open letter challenging a claim we believe is both harmful and untrue: that trans women pose a threat to lesbians and women.

That claim — currently being pursued in Australia’s Federal Court by Sall Grover with support from the Lesbian Action Group (LAG) — was accompanied by arguments many in our community see as deeply harmful.

One being that lesbians are being “pressured” to have sex with trans women. Another being that the law should redefine “woman” to exclude trans women entirely to make sure there are “female-only” spaces that allow allow women who were assigned female at birth (AFAB).

In response, nearly 1,000 lesbians, queer women, trans women, non-binary and gender diverse people, allies and organisations have signed the open letter to say: Grover and LAG do not speak for us. They do not speak for lesbians, all women, the queer community, or our community as a whole.

The response has been overwhelming. And since then, the story has developed.

Find the open letter here and add your name! 

Equality Australia seeking leave to intervene

Equality Australia has now confirmed it is seeking leave to intervene in Grover’s appeal.

This is a step that underscores just how serious the stakes are in this case.

“Equality Australia is seeking leave to intervene in this appeal and the outcome is yet to be determined,” the organisation said in a statement provided to QNews.

“We are seeking to intervene because the proceeding raises issues that are significant for LGBTIQ+ communities.”

The appeal hearings are scheduled to begin next week and could have lasting implications for the legal protection of trans women under anti-discrimination law, as well as the definition of ‘woman.’

Grover: Equality Australia ‘intervening against the lesbians’

The Australian on Monday reported that Sall Grover said Equality Australia’s support for trans inclusion amounted to “intervening against the lesbians.”

“My heart sank when I saw it, because they aren’t actually intervening against me, they’re intervening against the lesbians – the first letter, the L in their acronym they claim to advocate for,” she said to the publication.

“If men can be lesbians, what are you advocating for? Because to say that a man can be a lesbian, you are now advocating for the rights of heterosexual men, not homosexual women,” she continued. 

We are 975 strong and counting

We can’t allow any group promoting exclusionary views, including Grover and LAG, to weaponise lesbian identity or feminism against trans women, or to erase the diversity within womanhood and lesbianism.

We’re 25 names away from our goal of 1,000.

If you haven’t yet added your name to the open letter, you can do so here.

And if you’ve already signed, keep sharing.

Post the letter, tag your community, and remind the world: Grover and LAG do not speak for our LGBTQIA+ community or for women.

We stand for trans inclusion, queer solidarity, and a future where all of our community can find safety, respect and belonging.

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, and community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

Queensland Parliment indefinitely delay overdue anti-discrimination reform

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Queensland Parliment indefinitely delay overdue anti-discrimination reform

Queensland Parliament has passed legislation that will indefinitely delay long overdue anti-discrimination reforms due to start on July 1st.

The passing of a bill that indefinitely delays anti-discrimination reforms in Queensland has left thousands exposed to harassment and discrimination. 

With the work already done and the new laws set to take effect on 1st July this year, many are now left unsure of what comes next.

An uncertainty felt by businesses and workers, as well as women’s, disability and LGBTIQ+ groups.

Added as part of an amendment to a broader Crime and Corruption Bill, the indefinite legislative delay was passed on Wednesday night. 

The amendment indefinitely pauses the implementation of the former Labor government’s ‌Respect at Work Act.

The Act made it a legal requirement for businesses and government agencies to prevent discrimination before it occurs.

Something Equality Australia called out on their social media.

“Instead of listening to years of expert consultation, the government appears to be giving undue weight to fringe ideological voices.”

“They are also leaving vulnerable communities exposed to harassment and discrimination.”

The amendment was passed 53 to 33.

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The government is turning back the clock on equality.

Described as the biggest overhaul of the state’s anti-discrimination laws since their creation in 1991, the LNP voted against it.

Then, State LNP Attorney-General Deb Frecklington introduced legislation to delay the implementation of the Respect at Work and Other Matters Amendment Act 2024.

This was added to the Crime and Corruption Bill.

Now indefinitely on pause, this change to the act would have introduced laws protecting more Queenslanders from discrimination.

This included victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, and people experiencing homelessness.

The reforms also established a “positive duty” on employers to prevent discrimination in their workplace before it occurs.

Frecklington said more time was needed to address potential issues and unintended consequences when introducing the delay.

“The current timeline for commencement does not provide sufficient time to address potential issues and unintended consequences,” she said.

“Nor does it allow time for further consultation without being burdensome on organisations working to comply with the new laws.”

“Delaying commencement is the only sensible option to ensure we have sufficient time to consult with Queenslanders and ensure the settings of the legislation are appropriate,” she said.

Equality Australia’s Brisbane-based Legal Director, Heather Corkhill, says this leaves the LGBTIQ+ community open to hate.

“LGBTIQ+ people will continue to face discrimination and hate without the legal protections they need.”

“Because the government has paused reforms that are critical, common sense and long overdue.

“Delaying reforms to discrimination and hate speech for vulnerable communities sends a dangerous message that our rights are not a priority.

“Instead of listening to years of expert consultation,

“The government appears to be giving undue weight to fringe ideological voices that want to turn back the clock on equality.”

Image: Facebook

There is no need for an indefinite postponement.

The Queensland Human Rights Commission have called out the introduced legislation, indefinitely delaying legislated changes to Queensland’s Anti-Discrimination Act.

With Commissioner Scott McDougall calling it a “huge disappointment” to himself and to “many Queenslanders who have worked tirelessly for positive change.”

“Since the Attorney General indicated her intention to pause the reforms on 14 March 2025,”

“I have sought to work with her constructively to devise a proportionate response to any concerns she may have,” he said

“I have consistently pressed upon the Attorney General that there is no need for an indefinite postponement of the entirety of the suite of sensible reforms.”

“Options on the table included limited and time-bound postponement of aspects that raised concerns,

“Such as the new prohibitions on sex-based harassment and the new irrelevant criminal record attribute.

“An alternative was targeted amendments to clarify the reforms and exemptions.

“Despite these available options, the Government has chosen indefinite postponement of these reforms.”

Commissioner McDougall said he shared these concerns with the Attorney General and the adverse impacts that may arise.

As the Bill had already undergone an extensive process and consultation.

“At best, this could result in consultation fatigue,” he said.

“At worst, it stokes public debate which is re-traumatising to victims of discrimination, harassment, vilification and victimisation.”

“If the Attorney General is genuine about fostering safe, respectful and inclusive workplaces across Queensland,

“I urge her to be forthcoming about her intentions for consultation and a commencement date for all or most of the amendments to the Anti-Discrimination Act.

“In the absence of this information, there is a risk the community will lose confidence in the Government’s commitment to strengthening protections for vulnerable Queenslanders and modernising Queensland’s equality laws.”

These aren’t theoretical policy agreements.

The halt in changes to the reform of Queensland’s anti-discrimination act not only affects the LGBTQIA+ communities.

Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Advocacy for Inclusion, Matilda Alexander, says this amplifies vilification towards the disabled.

“Most discrimination complaints are from people with disability,” she said

“It’s clear the law is failing those who need it most.”

“The hard work is done, and the consultations are over.

“These aren’t theoretical policy arguments.

“These are lived realities for people with disability.”

James Farrell, CEO of Basic Rights Queensland, says this delays “efforts to establish safe and respectful workplaces.”

“There are clear gaps in Queensland’s legal framework that leave people exposed to harassment and discrimination,” he said.

“The government is electing to delay access to stronger protections for thousands of people across the state without a single justifiable reason.

Co-Convenor of the Queensland Domestic Violence Services Network and CEO of the Centre for Women & Co, Stacey says these changes are needed now.

 “Safe workplaces foster safe communities.”

“Advancing these protections is vital in creating a fairer and more just Queensland.

“Stronger anti-discrimination protections are not just a legal necessity but a moral and social imperative,

“Pausing the implementation disregards an evidence-based process and the voices of those most impacted by discrimination.”

“Now, more than ever, Queensland must lead with laws that ensure safety, justice and equality for all.” 

In Queensland, our communities and others will continue to face discrimination and hate without the legal protections we need.

All because the state government has indefinitely paused reforms where the work had already been done for further consultation.

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

Equality Australia releases federal election voting guide

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Equality Australia releases federal election voting guide

Equality Australia has released a federal election voting guide reflecting where various parties and independents stand on issues that matter to LGBTQIA+ communities.

The national organisation has released an overview of each party’s commitment to LGBTQIA+ rights and wellbeing.

Responses were provided to 21 questions within eight key topic areas including health, discrimination protections and support for rainbow families.

“Many LGBTIQ+ voters told us they were unsure about which party or candidate will do the best job of representing them,” said Equality Australia legal director Heather Corkhill.

“We have found higher electoral indecision in our community compared to the last federal poll,” Corkhill said.

“Our voting guide indicates where the parties and independents stand on issues that impact us day to day,” she said.

“It also reflects who will fight to advance the rights and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ people and best represent our diverse communities.”

The questions put to political parties were based on priorities identified by nearly 5,500 LGBTQIA+ voters who participated in Equality Australia’s Rainbow Votes 2025 survey.

Biggest priority

The report found LGBTQIA+ policies remain the biggest priority for rainbow communities, closely followed by climate change and cost of living concerns.

“LGBTIQ+ people continue to face discrimination and many of us struggle to access appropriate and safe healthcare when we need it,” Corkhill said.

“We are also seeing an increase in hate crimes targeting our communities … Queer staff and students can still be legally discriminated against in religious schools,” she said.

“Our community has made significant gains over the last decade and most Australians believe we deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, but our voting guide clearly shows that more needs to be done before we can live our lives free from discrimination and harm.”

The full voting guide can be viewed at https://equalityaustralia.org.au/our-work/rainbow-votes/#voting-guide.

For the latest LGBTQIA+, Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

1 in 5 LGBTIQ+ voters are undecided, will your rainbow vote count?

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1 in 5 LGBTIQ+ voters are undecided, will your rainbow vote count?

A new report has found 1 in 5 LGBTQIA+ voters are undecided, with more than a third indicating they’ll change who they vote for in the upcoming election.

The top LGBTIQ+ priority issues in the upcoming election are ending conversion practices and protections against discrimination.

According to Equality Australia’s Rainbow Votes Report, about 5.5 per cent of Australian voters are LGBTIQ+.

This equates to almost one million voters who can make their vote count in the upcoming federal election.

The report has found that LGBTIQ+ policies remain the number one priority for queer voters.

Closely followed by climate issues and the cost of living, based on a national online survey of 5346 LGBTIQ+ voters. 

“Parties and independents can’t take LGBTIQ+ voters for granted,” said Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown,

“They should be working hard to win back voters and build support among those who are undecided,

“These results send a very important message.

“You must earn our votes through meaningful policy commitments.”  

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Uncertainty about who represents their interests.

According to the Rainbow Votes Report, results about 36.7 per cent of LGBTIQ+ respondents will change their vote from the previous election.

While just over 20 per cent of LGBTIQ+ voters were undecided.

This is an increase in voter indecision since the last election, when a survey conducted by Equality Australia found only 13.6 per cent of people were unsure.   

“We’re seeing higher levels of electoral indecision within our community,” Brown said.

“And many respondents expressed uncertainty about which party or candidate will best represent their interests,” 

LGBTIQ+ voters share the same concerns as many other Australians, including the cost of living and the environment.

But ranked highest in the survey were policy issues impacting the LGBTIQ+ community as the highest priority.  

About 95 per cent of people surveyed said that LGBTIQ+ issues are important to them in deciding their vote.

 In 2022, the top concern was the environment, followed by LGBTIQ+ issues and then healthcare. 

 “Even amid the economic pressures of the cost-of-living crisis, LGBTIQ+ voters remain deeply focused on how policy issues for our community will shape our lives and our futures,” Brown said. 

“This change may reflect concerns about global anti-rights movements as well as frustration over the lack of progress on key issues affecting LGBTIQ+ people.” 

Composite photo. Images: Creative Commons

Our voice matters.

The Top LGBTIQ+ priority issues according to the survey were ending conversion practices and protections against discrimination.

Followed by ending unnecessary, non-consensual procedures on intersex people, supporting rainbow families and improving LGBTIQ+ mental health and suicide prevention.

 Removing barriers faced by rainbow families was not included in the 2022 survey questions, but emerged as the fourth most important concern for voters in the 2025 data. 

The report found that LGBTIQ+ people in Australia are united on the issues that matter to them.

Even policy issues that do not personally affect them.

Ending unnecessary medical treatment on intersex people remains one of the top five policy issues.

Alongside protections against discrimination and ending conversion practices.  

“We represent a powerful voting bloc of over one million voters across Australia,” Brown said. 

“And together with our allies, we have the collective strength to influence policy directions and electoral outcomes, 

“Our voices matter, our votes count, and our community’s concerns deserve to be addressed with substantive policy solutions.” 

Source: Facebook

How do they measure up?

The report also included a score card on the three years since the last election.

It found the current federal government has made significant strides in LGBTIQ+ health and responses to domestic violence.

They’ve also paved the way for greater inclusion in the Census for LGBTQ+ people, despite some setbacks. 

The community was let down again after Labor failed to protect LGBTQ+ students and teachers in religious schools.

Despite their election commitment in 2022.

Discrimination reform was the second most important LGBTIQ+ issue to address in Australia, according to the survey. 

“Given the high rates of discrimination and stigma we experience, it’s unsurprising that strengthening protections remains a top priority,” Brown said,

“Including in religious schools where they can still legally expel a queer student or sack a gay teacher,” Ms Brown said. 

You can find out how to make your rainbow vote count at the Rainbow Votes Election Forum.

The forum on April 15th is sold out, but you can still watch it via a live-streamed across Australia.

You can find the details here.

This is an opportunity for LGBTIQ+ people around the country to hear political representatives discuss the issues that matter most to them. 

You can read the full Rainbow Votes Report here.

Source: equalityaustralia.org.au

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

Victoria passes anti-vilification laws, protecting LGBTQIA+ people

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Victoria passes anti-vilification laws, protecting LGBTQIA+ people

Vilifying LGBTQIA+ people, women and people living with a disability is now illegal in Victoria, after the passing of the Justice Legislation Amendment (Anti-vilification and Social Cohesion) Bill.

The bill was passed just before 3.30am this morning, 22 votes to 17, expanding the state’s pre-existing hate speech laws.

LGBTQIA+, women’s and disability groups welcomed the news, which gives the relevant communities the same protections that have been afforded on race and religious grounds for over two decades.

‘Cutting off hate’

Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown said the anti-vilification laws were about “cutting off hate at its source”.

“Attacks on the queer community have escalated in recent years and harassment, discrimination and violence shockingly remain a lived experience for many people,” Brown said.

“This legislation makes it clear that hate is not just against humanity – it’s against the law,” she said.

Other reactions

Transgender Victoria CEO on Son Vivienne said: “Transgender Victoria applauds the passing of the long-awaited Anti-Vilification Bill through Victorian parliament.

“True progress hinges on building widespread public understanding of the lived reality of vilification which requires ongoing public education that empowers all Victorians, including targeted groups.

“We want a society built on mutual regard and not hate.”

Sally Hasler the CEO of Women’s Health Victoria, said: “Some of the most marginalised and vulnerable people in Victoria are now finally protected from hate speech.

“All Victorians deserve to feel safe and respected, especially women and gender diverse people who are the main targets of gender-based violence.”

Julie Phillips, CEO of the Disability Discrimination Legal Service, said: “People with disabilities should not have had to wait so long for the protections from hate that other minority groups have benefited from.

“We are extremely pleased that vilification against people with disabilities, a long-standing problem, will finally be illegal.”

Up to five years’ jail for bigots

The reforms make serious vilification offences – such as incitement of hatred or physical threats – punishable by up to five years’ jail.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said they were backed by Hindu, Muslim and Sikh community leaders, as well as advocates for women, disabled people and the LGBTQIA+ community.

“It’s another strengthening of the laws, the strengthening of police powers, and doing it in a really powerful way.

“It’s about saying this is the sort of society we want to see here in Victoria, where you can be free from hate,” she said.

For the latest LGBTIQA+, Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

[qnewsau]

Five weeks to make your rainbow vote count as Federal Election called

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Five weeks to make your rainbow vote count as Federal Election called

Five weeks to make your rainbow vote count as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calls a Federal Election for May 3rd.

The election campaign is officially underway as Labor and Liberal start a race to the polls.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced this morning that the date of the Federal Election will be Saturday, 3rd May.

At Parliament House, Prime Minister Albanese said Australians’ “vote has never been more important”.

“What I want is a campaign about policy substance and about hope and optimism for our country.”

“I’m optimistic about Australia,

“This election is a choice between Labor’s plan to keep building or Peter Dutton’s promise to cut.

“That is the choice. That is your choice.”

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  A post shared by Anthony Albanese (@albomp)

Rainbow votes hold real power.

Equality Australia has called a Rainbow Votes Election Forum for next month.

“There are about a million LGBTIQ+ voters across the country and our rainbow votes hold real power.” Anna Brown said in a statement,

“This year it’s crucial that whoever wins government,”

“Or has a role in the new parliament,

“Is committed to advancing the rights and freedoms of LGBTIQ+ people.”

The event is being hosted by Equality Australia, Health Equity Matters, InterAction for Health and Human Rights and LGBTIQ+ Health Australia.

Held in Sydney on 15th April, the free forum will be live-streamed for all across the country to watch.

The Rainbow Votes Election Forum will give you the chance to hear our political representatives discuss the issues and policies that matter most to our communities.

These include access to appropriate health care, protections against discrimination and support for rainbow families and more.

Courtney Act will be moderating the forum, so it will not only be an informative night, but a fun one as well.

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  A post shared by Equality Australia (@equalityaustralia)

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.