Qld gov't confirms review of civil unions

A Queensland citizen has received confirmation in writing that the Queensland government will definitely be considering repeal of the state’s civil union legislation.

In a letter sighted by gaynewsnetwork Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie’s chief of staff David Fraser stated the Civil Partnerships Act 2011 would be reviewed.

“I confirm that this Government will be reviewing the Act and considering all possible options for change, including a full or partial repeal of the Act. No decision about the Act has been made,” Fraser wrote.

Shelley Argent, National spokesperson for PFLAG said the news was “appalling”.

"It is appalling that the government is considering taking rights away from my son just because he's gay," Argent said.

"I urge Queenslanders not to stand by while the rights of their family members, friends and work colleagues are stripped away."
 
The principal psychologist at Centre for Human Potential, Paul Martin, warned the government of the likely consequences of repeal.

“Research clearly demonstrates that when stigmatised minorities are targeted in ways such as this, it increases levels of distress and results in negative mental health outcomes which can include depression, substance abuse, anxiety and suicide,” Martin said.

“It is appalling that this Government is so blatantly acting in ways that is leading to unnecessary human suffering.”

The news came hot on the heels of a protest last Wednesday night (May 30) where over 1,000 people protested the government’s actions in reviewing civil unions and defunding gay men’s HIV initiative Healthy Communities.