November 24, 2008
Despite Constitutional Marriage Ban, Australia Still Skips Ahead of U.S. on Federal Equality
Australia approves rights for gay couples The Australian government has passed legislation recognizing same-sex couples under a large number of laws, but the measure falls short of granting either marriage or civil unions.
The omnibus bill mounted its final hurdle Monday, winning approval in the Senate. The legislation passed the House in September. It still requires the signature of the Governor General, a formality, before going into effect.
The Same-Sex Entitlements Bill removes discrimination against same-sex partners in areas such as immigration, taxation, veterans’ pensions and aged care. It also abolishes discrimination against children of same-sex couples by granting equal rights to both parents.
In total, it amends 68 Commonwealth laws.
“They deliver on a very important election commitment on an important day for us,” Labor senator Penny Wong, who is openly gay, told the Senate during Monday’s debate.
“They will deliver the sort of equality before the law that same-sex couples have never previously experienced.”
Green Party Leader Bob Brown, who also is openly gay and a long-time campaigner for same-sex rights, called passage of the bill a major step forward. …
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Filed Under: Age & Ageing, Australia/NZ, Civil Rights, Immigration, Insurance, Marriage
