Entitlements for same sex couples

Julian Punch
THE Federal Government has moved to eliminate discrimination from Commonwealth laws, bringing entitlements for same sex couples into line with those for heterosexual couples. From July, Centrelink will be able to investigate same-sex couples if they fail to declare they are in a de facto relationship. Couples can register their relationships with Centrelink from Monday. see the web pages below.
COPP Same Sex Reforms page: http://home.vicnet.net.au/~copptas/Same-Sex/Same-Sex.htm
ABC online has an article announcing the opening of Centrelink’s register of same-sex relationships: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/03/24/2524315.htm
COPP has been requesting four regional Forums in conjunction with the COPP Community Liaison Committees in Tasmania to inform same sex partners and negotiate these important changes that will effect many of us. So far little progress. Please encourage the responsible Minister Joe Ludwig by emailing him senator.ludwig@aph.gov.au as well as Duncan Kerr Duncan.Kerr.MP@aph.gov.au to provide us with these Information Forums to enable adequate community support and protection given this ‘outing’.
Julian Punch AM
Coming Out Proud Program
WEB www.comingoutproud.org