Local voice on state LGBTIQA+ taskforce

THE State Government’s next LGBTIQA+ Taskforce and working groups will include a Ballarat-based academic researcher with human rights law expertise.

La Trobe University’s Sean Mulcahy is set to chair the taskforce’s justice working group alongside parliamentarian Michael Galea.

The aim of the taskforce is to focus on issues relating to people in LGBTIQA+ communities, and to advocate for them to the government.

“I’ll be focused on justice issues that affect LGBTQIA+ people which include policing, prisons, youth justice systems, as well as the laws that govern LGBTQIA+ populations across the state,” Mr Mulcahy said.

“A key focus area for me for my time on the taskforce and in chairing the justice working group will be to ensure that our laws reflect the diversity of the community, and to ensure that LGBTIQA+ inclusion is embedded into the laws here in Victoria.

“Only decades ago, the laws criminalised us and police were enforcing those laws against our community.

“With advocacy, those laws have changed, but we need to get to the position where Victoria Police, right across the state, are actively enforcing the law to protect LGBTQIA+ from violence and from harassment.”

Mr Mulcahy said he is “acutely conscious” of his responsibility to represent and advocate for regional Victorians, especially Ballarat residents.

“I can bring a strong perspective on the issues that affect LGBTIQA+ people in the regions, which we know are different to those that affect people in the city,” he said.

“There’s also a really strong story to tell from Ballarat. We are the fifth highest local government area with our LGBTIQA+ population percentage, so we have a strong and vibrant community here.

“We’ve worked with local government to establish an LGBTIQA+ advisory committee, have created a leading LGBTIQA+ action plan, and council was unanimous in its support for both measures.

“There’s something the whole state can learn from the Ballarat way.”

Acting Minister for Equality, Steve Dimopoulos, said the taskforce and working groups are about fostering an inclusive environment.

“This work is nation-leading and especially important in a year when we have seen an increase in discrimination and hatred towards LGBTIQA+ communities,” he said.

“We must continue to work together towards a Victoria where everyone can feel safe, supported, and equal regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.”