28 September 2006
Research identifies federal laws discriminating against same-sex couples
The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) today released a discussion paper and detailed research paper which identifies Commonwealth laws that discriminate against same-sex couples and their children.
This is the second discussion paper released as part of the Same-Sex: Same Entitlements Inquiry - the National Inquiry into Discrimination Against People in Same-Sex Relationships: Financial and Work-Related Entitlements and Benefits.
HREOC President John von Doussa QC said: "Same-sex partners living in genuine relationships are denied the entitlements most families take for granted, such as: carer"s leave when their children are sick; tax rebates for dependants; and a guarantee that their partner will receive their superannuation death benefits."
"This research demonstrates how pervasive the discrimination experienced by same-sex couples is."
Human Rights Commissioner Graeme Innes AM said: "Discrimination occurs in many of the fundamental aspects of family life governed by the Commonwealth, including: employment conditions; health entitlements; social security; tax; superannuation; family law; aged care and migration."
"This research confirms the compelling personal stories that the President and I have heard from many same-sex couples during recent consultations."
The Same-Sex: Same Entitlements Inquiry received more than 350 submissions in response to its first discussion paper. The Inquiry is now inviting comments on this second discussion paper by 3 November 2006.
The Inquiry aims to finalise its report in early 2007 so that it can be tabled in Federal Parliament by mid-2007.
For a schedule of Inquiry consultations, written summary of the testimonies and audio files see: www.humanrights.gov.au/samesex/hearings.html
The summary discussion paper is available at: www.humanrights.gov.au/samesex/discussion_paper2.html
and a full research paper is available at: www.humanrights.gov.au/samesex/research_paper.html
For more information about the Inquiry, see: www.humanrights.gov.au/samesex/index.html
Media Contact: Gail Heathwood (02) 9284 9834
Last updated 28 September, 2006
