The Informer

24 May 2016

Victoria’s Parliament Says sorry

Government & Organisations, History, News & Politics

Today Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews did something that no other leader in this country has had the guts to do.  He led an all-of-house parliamentary apology for legislation that criminalised homosexuality.

In keeping with his ongoing commitment to LGBTI Victorians that “Equality is not negotiable”, Daniel Andrews delivered the speech of his life.  With heartfelt sincerity and conviction, Victoria’s Premier said “We apologise for the laws we passed, the standards we set and the lives we ruined.”

Before homosexuality was decriminalised in 1980, men could be sentenced for up to 15 years in prison for having consensual sex with other men. These laws included buggery, gross indecency and indecent assault on a male and loitering or soliciting for homosexual purposes.

Those convicted were publicly shamed in newspapers. As a result, they lost jobs, were forced to withdraw from study, and were ostracised by family and friends.

“These unjust laws amounted to nothing less than state-sanctioned homophobia. This Parliament is to be formally held to account for designing a cult of hatred. And those who faced its sanction are to be formally recognised for their relentless pursuit of freedom,”

Premier Andrews addressing the packed chamber, gallery and adjoining Queen’s Hall full of LGBTI community members.

Tonight on The Informer, Dean Beck takes a look at this historic day for the LGBTI Community and in particular, Victoria’s gay men.

Gay men wishing to inquire about having their historical convictions expunged, can contact Anna Brown on 03  8636 4458 or by emailing expungement@hrlc.org.au.

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