MEDIA RELEASE: Repeal of discrimination welcomed, but equality still lacking

MEDIA RELEASE: Repeal of discrimination welcomed, but equality still lacking
Civil Union Action! (CUA)
http://www.cuaction.org

Repeal of discrimination welcomed, but equality still lacking

For Immediate Release: 30 April 2008

Human rights group, Civil Union Action! (CUA) has welcomed federal Attorney-General Robert McClelland's announcement today to amend over 100 pieces of federal legislation next month that discriminate against same-sex couples, but has stressed that same-sex couples will not be equal until a nationwide formal recognition scheme is introduced, such as civil unions or equal marriage.

"Civil Union Action welcomes the Attorney-General's pledge to remove discrimination against same-sex couples next month, which will be a significant step towards equality for same-sex couples," CUA spokesperson John Kloprogge said.

"This will fix discriminatory laws in tax, superannuation, social security, health, aged care, veterans entitlements, workers compensation and employment entitlements, among other areas - many of which were targetted by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity's (HREOC) report, 'Same-sex: Same Entitlements'."

"However, same-sex couples will not truly be equal under federal law until we have a nationwide scheme - such as civil unions or equal marriage - that will guarantee entitlements are recognised and legal uncertainty is avoided."

"Only a nationwide, formal relationship scheme that same-sex couples can opt in to, will give couples real equality and the legal security of knowing their relationships are recognised."

"Without such a scheme, same-sex couples could continually have the status of their relationships challenged by relatives or officials, which could jeopardise their entitlements," Mr Kloprogge concluded.

The government's proposals will be introduced in the winter session of parliament, and will be in full operation by mid-2009 if passed.


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Media contact:
John Kloprogge 0422 913 942 cuaction@hotmail.com

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References:

'Same-sex: Same Entitlements' report:
http://www.humanrights.gov.au/human_rights/samesex/

MEDIA RELEASE: Equality demands amendments to R'ships Register

MEDIA RELEASE: Equality demands amendments to R'ships Register
Civil Union Action! (CUA)
http://www.cuaction.org

Equality demands amendments to R'ships Register

For Immediate Release: 9 April 2008

Human rights group, Civil Union Action! (CUA) has welcomed the preliminary support in the Victorian Legislative Council last night for a Relationships Register, but has urged members who support equality to approve proposed amendments in the Committee stage today.

Members voted 29-10 last night to advance the bill to the next stage (Second Reading). Greens MLC for Southern Metropolitan, Sue Pennicuik, circulated proposed amendments for debate – regarding official ceremonies and the recognition of couples where one partner is a non-resident of Victoria.

While the bill will provide legal security to couples, Civil Union Action spokesperson, John Kloprogge, urged members to support the Greens' amendments.

“Civil Union Action supports the register, as it provides much needed legal security to couples – but there are serious issues which need to be fixed, for the sake of equality.”

“First, the option of official ceremonies. Surely the love and commitment of two partners is worth celebrating in a public way? It's not acceptable in the 21st century to hide our relationships away.”

“Second, recognition of couples where one partner lives interstate. Couples who find themselves separated by distance shouldn't be separated from legal recognition and support.”

“Third, mutual recognition of corresponding schemes. The Victorian register should recognise couples who registered their relationship in Tasmania, for instance. We understand the Government has, thankfully, promised to fix this issue.”

“And finally, adoption. While it may not strictly fit within the aims of this bill, same-sex couples have not forgotten about it. The Victorian Law Reform Commission last year recommended legalising same-sex adoption – but the Brumby Government has evaded responsibility on the issue thus far.”

Proposed amendments to the Relationships Bill 2007 will be debated in Committee stage, today. After that, it will be due for its Third Reading speech and a vote will be taken. Once approved and given Royal assent, the register will come into operation by 1 December 2008.

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Media contact:
John Kloprogge 0422 913 942 cuaction@hotmail.com

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References:
The bill, and Ms Pennicuik's proposed amendments, can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com.au/x.php?mpa