Media Release: Same Sex: Same Entitlements Inquiry Comes to QueenslandSame Sex: Same Entitlements Inquiry Comes to Queensland 9th October 2006 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender activists are pinning their hopes for reform to federal laws on a Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission (HREOC) inquiry that comes to Brisbane this week. “There are around 70 separate Commonwealth Acts which discriminate against us and deny us our human rights. What other group in Australian society is still arguing for equal access to basic entitlements such as Medicare, superannuation and veteran’s benefits” said Rod Goodbun, President of the Queensland Association for Healthy Communities (QAHC). “This inquiry is the best chance we have had so far to argue the case for equal treatment in federal laws.” HREOC is conducting an inquiry into discrimination against same-sex couples regarding access to financial and work-related entitlements. This week it holds a series of public forums and a hearing in Queensland to gather evidence about the impacts of discriminatory laws on people in same-sex couples, and any children of same-sex couples. “HREOC has published its own research which demonstrates just how extensive discrimination still is in federal laws. While states and territories have significantly reformed their laws to create equality for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people, there has been almost no reform at the federal level” said Goodbun. “Federal laws are now way out of step with community standards and the expectations of average Australians” said Shelley Argent, spokesperson for Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). “I just want my gay son to have the same rights and obligations as my heterosexual son”.” The Inquiry will review Commonwealth, State and Territory laws in order to develop a full list of circumstances in which same-sex couples may be denied financial and work-related benefits and entitlements that heterosexual couples enjoy. The Inquiry will make recommendations to the Federal Attorney-General, Philip Ruddock, and Federal Parliament as to how to address any discrimination. Public Forum in Brisbane Tuesday, 10 October, 6pm - 9pm Hearing in Brisbane Wednesday, 11 October, 10am - 12.30pm Public Forum in Townsville Thursday, 12 October, 6pm - 8.30pm Rod Goodbun and Shelley Argent will be available for comment from 9am to 10am on Wednesday, 11 October 2006 at the Christie Centre, Endeavour 2 Room, Level 6, 320 Adelaide St, Brisbane. Information about the terms of reference for the inquiry is available form the HREOC website: http://www.hreoc.gov.au/samesex/
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