LGBT rights in Australia

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LGBT rights in Australia have evolved significantly over the past few decades, with substantial progress in areas such as same-sex marriage, anti-discrimination protections, and recognition of gender identity.

Legal Recognition

Same-Sex Marriage

Same-sex marriage was legalized in Australia on 9 December 2017 following a national postal survey and subsequent legislation passed by the Parliament of Australia. The Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Act 2017 redefined marriage as "the union of 2 people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life."

De Facto Relationships

De facto relationships, including same-sex relationships, are recognized under both federal and state laws. These relationships provide many of the same rights and responsibilities as marriage, including property division and spousal maintenance.

Adoption and Parenting

Same-sex couples are permitted to adopt children in all Australian states and territories. Additionally, lesbian couples have access to assisted reproductive technology (ART) services, and both partners can be recognized as legal parents.

Anti-Discrimination Protections

The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 was amended in 2013 to include protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status. This federal legislation complements various state and territory anti-discrimination laws.

Gender Identity and Intersex Rights

Legal Gender Recognition

Transgender individuals in Australia can change their legal gender on official documents, although the requirements vary by state and territory. Some jurisdictions require surgery or medical treatment, while others do not.

Intersex Rights

Intersex individuals have specific protections under anti-discrimination laws. Advocacy groups continue to push for reforms to end non-consensual medical interventions on intersex children.

Military Service

Since 1992, LGBT individuals have been allowed to serve openly in the Australian Defence Force. The military also provides support services for LGBT personnel and their families.

Public Opinion and Social Attitudes

Public opinion in Australia has become increasingly supportive of LGBT rights. The 2017 postal survey on same-sex marriage showed that 61.6% of respondents were in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage.

Related Pages

• Same-sex marriage in Australia
• LGBT history in Australia
• Sex Discrimination Act 1984
• Australian Defence Force
• Gender identity
• Intersex rights in Australia

See Also

• Human rights in Australia
• LGBT rights by country or territory
• LGBT social movements