National LGBTIQA+ body Equality Australia and WA’s Rainbow Futures WA, TransFolk of WA, Youth Pride Network and Pride WA met with the Premier to discuss establishing a whole-of-government approach to LGBTIQA+ issues, urgent upcoming reforms, and greater support for WA LGBTIQA+ groups.
Members from Rainbow Futures WA discussed the need for a government that listens to and prioritises LGBTIQA+ communities across WA.
“We’re excited to commence a productive working relationship with Premier Cook, to ensure that in this government, LGBTIQA+ communities have a voice.” Nat Latter, Rainbow Futures WA member said.
“Too often, decisions on issues that impact us are made without us. But after deep community consultation and learning from successful models interstate and overseas, we’re delighted to bring a proposal for a rainbow portfolio to government,” said Misty Farquhar OAM and Rainbow Futures WA member.
“If successful it would mean a dedicated home and responsible MP to ensure we are represented in everyday issues across many areas of government, and address those unique to us like surgeries and medical interventions on intersex babies and children without personal informed consent.”
Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown affirmed the need for establishing conversations between government and community as pressing reforms make their way to WA Parliament.
“I’m delighted to be back in Perth to meet the extraordinary LGBTIQ+ community here and be part of this first ever conversation with the Premier and our communities,” she said.
“We’re keen to continue conversations and impress the urgency of reform to end damaging conversion practices, remove barriers to gender recognition and ensure LGBTIQ+ people are free from discrimination at work, school and when accessing services.”
TransFolk of WA Team Lead Emery Wishart also welcomed the dialogue with the Premier, in particular noting the urgency behind gender recognition reform.
“We’ve been working on gender recognition law reform as a priority since 2018, and it was important to share the challenges our community currently faces,” Wishart said.
“Another key focus for us is organisational resourcing especially to assist our community in the lead up to reform and with vital trans peer support.”
Pride WA CEO Lauren Butterly welcomed the momentus occasion.
“Delighted to meet with the Premier and hope to see him at PrideFEST, our month of celebration and solidarity in Western Australia,” Butterly said.
Youth Pride Network Policy and Project Coordinator Cheyanne Henderson-Watkins expressed the importance of today’s meeting and the importance of supporting queer youth.
“Youth Pride Network is excited and glad to talk with the Premier about the findings from the latest State of Play report.”
“It’s important for queer young people to be involved in conversations with government and we are keen to remain connected with the Premier as they work towards the reforms for safety of queer young people in WA.”
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