Sexual Orientation Discrimination

Ms BEDFORD (Florey) (15:03): My question is to the Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion. How is the government supporting community organisations to increase acceptance of LGBTIQ people and communities in South Australia?

The SPEAKER: Could the member for Florey just tell me what that abbreviation stands for?

Ms BEDFORD: Sir, it stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer people.

The SPEAKER: Thank you.

Ms BEDFORD: I am sure you didn't know that, did you?

The SPEAKER: No, I didn't. I knew some of the letters and not others.

The Hon. Z.L. BETTISON (Ramsay—Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion, Minister for Social Housing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Youth, Minister for Volunteers) (15:04): Can I thank the member for Florey for her question; I know she is a passionate advocate for equality and acceptance. We know that many people in our community are subject to discrimination, prejudice and vilification because of their sex, sexuality or gender identity, and we acknowledge the devastating impact this can have on people's health and wellbeing. That is why, last year, our government launched the South Australian Strategy for the Inclusion of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer People 2014-16.

The strategy establishes a framework to promote an inclusive South Australia, a community where diversity is both valued and celebrated. To support this work, I recently announced the successful recipients of the LGBTIQ Grants Program, which offered $50,000 in funding to support projects which promote the principles of the strategy, but also implements our vision of creating a society where all people feel safe and accepted.

Funding supports projects which increase acceptance of LGBTIQ people and communities, reduce the levels of discrimination experienced by LGBTIQ people and increase the capacity of community organisations. I am pleased about the diverse range of projects which were recommended for funding, and I want to make particular mention of the important work of Community House Port Lincoln, which I know the member for Flinders has a close association with, who have been keen to promoting acceptance and inclusion of LGBTIQ people in their local community.

I understand the centre, which has 'A Place for Everyone' as its motto, has provided a meeting space for the local Eyre Peninsula LGBTIQ community to develop their own local strategic plan, in alignment with the state government's inclusion strategy. This has led to the formation of the L2Q on the EP Advisory Committee, and the committee is one organisation which will receive funding through this program to erect a rainbow flag—a symbolic act that promotes awareness and celebrates diversity in their local community.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Ms Linda Davies, manager of Community House Port Lincoln, and Mr Travis Rogers for their hard work and commend them on their efforts. I would like to particularly acknowledge Travis, who was a member of the Rainbow Advisory Council. We appreciate his time and commitment to the council.

Improving outcomes and increasing opportunities for LGBTIQ people is critical to achieving an inclusive society, which in turn enhances the wellbeing and prosperity of our whole state. Our government is committed to building a society where everyone feels safe and where diversity is valued and celebrated.