Premium Content:

Tasmanian Liberal members vote to repeal transgender laws

Tasmanian Liberal party members have voted in favour of repealing the state’s landmark laws on transgender recognition.

- Advertisement -

At the party’s state conference this weekend party members voted to turn back the laws which were introduced in 2019, with delegates saying the legislation favoured a minority of people.

According to local news outlet The Advocate conference delegate Andrea McLean spoke in favour of the motion saying empathy with transgender people did make good policy, especially if it elevated the needs of a minority above those of others. McLean said the legislation had made women’s spaces unsafe.

Sue Hickey, the Speaker of the Assembly, said the current laws had already been scrutinised by both houses and had been widely misrepresented to the public.

While the motion was passed, it was non-binding, so it is up to the government to decide if it will follow through on party member’s wishes.

Equality Tasmanian spokesperson, Charlie Burton called on Premier Peter Gutwein to provide a clear message to people who are transgender.

“Our gender laws have brought equity and inclusion to many trans and gender diverse Tasmanians without any of the adverse consequences sceptics predicted.”

“They have also been endorsed by the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute after an extensive inquiry and consultation.”

Advocates say if the government is considering changes the laws they need to share the advice that decision is being based upon.

“If the Attorney-General, Elise Archer, has received any alternative advice she should release it publicly so it can be properly scrutinised.”

“We call on Premier Peter Gutwein to rule out any repeal or watering down of our ground-breaking gender laws.” Dr Burton said. “It’s time for Liberal Party to join the rest of Tasmania in upholding the values of inclusion and equality for all.”

OIP Staff


Love OUTinPerth Campaign

Help support the publication of OUTinPerth by contributing to our
GoFundMe campaign.

 

 

Latest

WA Reflections: Local drag history among newly-funded documentaries

Screenwest has announced funding for four new documentaries shining a light on local Western Australian history and celebrating our diversity.

‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ teases genre-bending third season

Paramount+ has released a teaser for the upcoming third season of its hit original series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Albanese v Dutton: ABC to host leaders debate ahead of federal election

Public broadcaster ABC have announced they will host the first free-to-air leaders debate ahead of May's federal election.

On This Gay Day | Sir Peter Pears passed away in 1986

Opera singer Peter Pears passed away on this day in 1986, aged 75.

Newsletter

Don't miss

WA Reflections: Local drag history among newly-funded documentaries

Screenwest has announced funding for four new documentaries shining a light on local Western Australian history and celebrating our diversity.

‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ teases genre-bending third season

Paramount+ has released a teaser for the upcoming third season of its hit original series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Albanese v Dutton: ABC to host leaders debate ahead of federal election

Public broadcaster ABC have announced they will host the first free-to-air leaders debate ahead of May's federal election.

On This Gay Day | Sir Peter Pears passed away in 1986

Opera singer Peter Pears passed away on this day in 1986, aged 75.

Former WA Governor Malcolm McCusker to lead inquiry into election

Premier Roger Cook said today that there was no question over who won each seat at the election.

WA Reflections: Local drag history among newly-funded documentaries

Screenwest has announced funding for four new documentaries shining a light on local Western Australian history and celebrating our diversity.

‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ teases genre-bending third season

Paramount+ has released a teaser for the upcoming third season of its hit original series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Albanese v Dutton: ABC to host leaders debate ahead of federal election

Public broadcaster ABC have announced they will host the first free-to-air leaders debate ahead of May's federal election.