So the Federal Election is over, and many of us are wondering what’s in it for the sexuality and gender diverse community except a bunch of double entendres, and a budding crush on Oakeshott. With the Greens in the balance of power, many are hoping that more progressive reforms can be enacted, such as same-sex marriage, recognition of diverse gender identities, and a restriction on the size of Akubras allowed to be worn in Parliament. However, against all expectations, it’s the lower house where battles will be fought in the next 3 years, with a few disparate independents holding sway, if only because Labor & Liberal don’t play well together. In this environment, a lot that was off the table under Labor, is now back on the table for debate. And that includes us.
Just after the Federal Election, a large group of community members got together to discuss what happens next on the road to full equality for people of diverse sexuality and gender. The lively forum included speakers from Federal & State Parliament, and representatives from a diversity of WA Community Groups. So what did they say?
They said a conscience vote on same-sex marriage is risky. There is very little confidence that if it was a put to a conscience vote, there would be enough of the less conservative members of the Liberal / National Coalition to replace the votes that would be lost from Labor. To be confident of succeeding in same-sex marriage, you need to bring the whole Labor Party with you.
They said that there is more opportunities for changes to Labor party policy, with a need to work with the Greens to get anything through the Senate from 2011. The Labor Government is reviewing the recommendations of the Human Rights Commission’s report on gender identity recognition, and may even think about implementing some of them.
They said there is still important work to be done in WA, and that it is possible with our own home grown hung parliament. Civil unions, coverage of gender identity in the Equal Opportunities Act and anti-vilification laws are just a few of the battles still to be won.
And they said we can do these things, by creating strong community, ally and organisational networks. They said we have strength, we have voice, and we have great opportunities with our hung governments for good debate, better legislation and progress on the road to full equality.
So what is happening next on the road to full equality?
Gay and Lesbian Equality (WA) took this feedback and turned it into a campaign strategy, which we’ll be launching at Pride Fairday. We’ll be providing new opportunities for individual community members, allies, and organisations to make a significant difference.
Come and see us at the GALE stall throughout Pride, and in the meantime, sign up to be part of the action at www.galewa.asn.au
GALE WA
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