QLD Proposes IVF, Surrogacy Reforms
Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh, has released proposed legislation changes which will allow same-sex couples to use altruistic surrogacy methods to have children and allow both parents of a child born to same-sex parents through IVF to be listed on the child’s birth certificate in that state. ‘We are taking these steps because we believe that everyone – no matter their sexual status or their gender – should be afforded the privilege of parenthood,’ read Ms Bligh’s official statement. The legislation will not affect adoption laws and same-sex couples will still be refused that option in Queensland. The legislation is expected to be introduced in the parliament by the end of the year.
Mardi Gras Winner for NSW
Mardi Gras is one of the most successful events on the NSW Master Events Calendar according to research released last month by Events NSW. The research included face-to-face surveys with 1,200 people at the Parade, 400 online surveys of Mardi Gras Party attendees and a media monitoring study, which found Mardi Gras generated 448 press articles in NSW and interstate, accounting for a cumulative circulation of over 40 million. Television and radio items broadcast in states other than NSW had a cumulative audience of almost 17 million. Mardi Gras attracted over 21,000 visitors to Sydney in 2009 and generated $30 million for the local economy.
NMG Tumultuous
After a marathon five-hour AGM, New Mardi Gras (NMG) has a new board. Previous NMG chair, David Imrie did not attend the AGM and the organisation is still to decide whether they will elect a new chair, return to a co-chair arrangement or opt to dispense with the position, instead sharing the role across all eight board members. During a Q&A session at the meeting, board member Steph Sands admitted that the controversial separation of the Mardi Gras Parade and Party was due to a scheduling error and not a carefully planned strategy, as has been claimed by NMG until now.
Seroconversion Study
The National Centre on HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research in conjunction with the WA AIDS Council and Western Australian Centre for Health Promotion and Research at Curtin University are conducting research among men who have recently contracted HIV. The HIV Seroconversion Study will provide valuable information for health promotion efforts and may be used in the development of health promotion materials for gay and other men who have sex with men. The study has had a large response nationally but more participants are still needed from WA. To take part in the study, go to www.hivss.net and enter the code sc2007-001. For more details on the study contact (02) 9385 0900 or email
Wallabies Line Up for Diversity
Australian Rugby Union team, the Wallabies, are the latest celebrities to put their faces to ACON’s This Is OZ campaign. The campaign aims to tackle discrimination against GLBTI people by asking members of the public to post photos of themselves holding messages that challenge homophobia or celebrate diversity and social inclusion. Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock and players Dave Pocock, Al Baxter and Steve Moore join the ranks of sports stars, actors, politicians and celebrities who have already taken part in the project. To view all the This Is OZ photos, go to www.thisisoz.com.au
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