LGBTIQA+ groups say new birth certificate laws that come into effect in Western Australia today will change lives for trans and gender diverse people across the state.
Trans and gender diverse people will no longer be required to have gender affirming medical treatment or seek approval from the Gender Reassignment Board before updating the gender marker on their birth certificate.
Non-binary people will also be recognised for the first time.
“We have made history today by removing the cruel and outdated legal barriers that have denied many trans and gender diverse people identification that accurately reflects their gender,” said Sam Gibbings, CEO of Transfolk WA.
“The Board was a dehumanising and intrusive process that adversely affected our community for far too long.”
“While this is a huge victory, we know more changes are required. Transfolk WA will continue to advocate for reforms that meet our community’s needs, including the right to self-identify without the need for evidence from a clinician.”
Under the new law, trans and gender diverse people are still required to submit evidence from their doctor or psychologist.
Misty Farquhar, CEO of Rainbow Futures WA, paid tribute to all those who had fought for the reforms.
“We have been waiting for these life-changing reforms for a very long time, and this is a momentous day for our community,” they said.
“Over many years trans and gender diverse people in WA have bravely come forward to share their experiences with decision-makers and advocate for a respectful pathway to gender recognition.
“Abolishing the Board and recognising non-binary people are vital reforms as part of this streamlined process that acknowledges our right to exist and be seen for who we are.”
Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown said that the new law was a positive step towards ensuring the safety and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people in WA.
“Trans and gender diverse people in WA can now take simple steps to ensure they have the ID needed to get a job, open a bank account or enrol to study,” she said.
“But more work is needed to strengthen these reforms so they reflect best practice and meet the government’s existing commitments on recognising our families, ending conversion practices and protecting our community from discrimination and harm.”
You can find the application forms online at: www.justice.wa.gov.au/bdm.
