On 15 November 2021, the LGBTIQ Justice Working Group held its final meeting of this term. A new Working Group will meet in 2022.
The list of members, terms of reference and communiques are available.
Specific matters considered
Reflections and achievements of the LGBTIQ Justice Working Group 2019-2021
Members reflected on achievements during this tenure including the introduction of laws to prohibit LGBT conversion practices, work to progress reform to religious exceptions in the Equal Opportunity Act and work with Victoria Police and Corrections on cultural change and inclusiveness, including for trans and gender diverse people in prison.
Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM) and Adoption Services: recent BDM reforms
Representatives from Births, Deaths and Marriages provided a presentation on recent reforms that are relevant to LGBTIQ+ communities. Members thanked Births, Deaths and Marriages for their achievements and contributions in reforms for Rainbow Families.
Update on Equal Opportunity Act and anti-vilification reforms
A representative of the Department of Justice and Community Safety provided an update on proposed amendments to anti-vilification laws and the Equal Opportunity Act 2010, noting the recent introduction of the Equal Opportunity (Religious Exceptions) Amendment Bill 2021 to Parliament.
Thanks
The Co-Chairs thanked members for their contributions, advice and perspectives, noting that the Working Group has contributed to significant and important progress towards full equality for LGBTIQ+ Victorians. The Co-Chairs also thanked Departmental officials and the Secretariat.
A representative from the Department of Justice and Community Safety thanked the Working Group on behalf of the Department and the Victorian Government for their contributions and efforts during this term.
Next meeting
A new Working Group will meet in 2022, with meeting dates to be confirmed.