Advocates welcome passage of anti-discrimination reform

Tasmanian equality advocates have united in welcoming a number of amendments to the Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Act, passed by the Legislative Council today.

The amendments include extended protections from offensive conduct – which prohibit a person from offending, humiliating, intimidating, insulting or ridiculing another person on the basis of their sexual orientation or sex and gender identities.

“These important reforms bring about a fairer and more inclusive Tasmania.”, Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality convener, Andrew Badcock said.

“By passing this reform, Tasmania has strengthened its responsibility for a person’s right to protection from discrimination based on their sex, gender, and sexuality”.

For the first time, Tasmania’s anti-discrimination laws have been extended to provide protection to transgender and intersex people.

Transgender advocate, Martine Delaney, also praised the amendments, particularly the inclusion of sex and gender diverse people.

“It’s a very welcome development,” she said. “The Bill specifically identifies intersex and transgender persons, ensuring better protections for people who are among the Tasmanians most vulnerable to abuse and discrimination.”

Included in the amendments were exemptions for faith-based schools to discriminate in enrolment on the grounds of religion. The additional attributes of race and disability have also been included.
“This legislation strikes the right balance of protecting people’s human rights and their free speech.”, Mr Badcock concluded.
Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality convener, Andrew Badcock