The NSW Government is seeking applications for a new advisory council designed to improve understanding of issues affecting LGBTIQ+ people across the state.
Fulfilling an election commitment, the LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council will provide a mechanism for ongoing community consultation and contribute to the development of a NSW Government LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy.
The Advisory Council will provide ongoing advice to the NSW Government as it delivers on a range of initiatives and commitments designed to promote equality and inclusion for LGBTIQ+ communities.
These initiatives include:
- implementing new legislation to ban LGBTQ+ conversion practices
- supporting Qtopia, the permanent home for the LGBTQIA+ museum at the former Darlinghurst police station, through a $6.7m commitment
- completing a legislative review to improve equality and inclusion for LGBTIQ+ people, and
- referring a review of the Anti-Discrimination Act to the NSW Law Reform Commission.
The 16-person Advisory Council will reflect the diversity of LGBTIQ+ communities in NSW.
Applications are being sought from people over 18 years of age with respect, influence and status within LGBTIQ+ communities and a demonstrated commitment to cooperation, inclusion and diversity.
People from First Nations, and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Applications can be submitted at the LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council webpage.
The Minns Government is also establishing a Cross-Portfolio Committee on LGBTIQ+ Issues, bringing together senior government officials with community representatives, that will coordinate efforts across government and enhance collaboration and partnerships.
This Committee will work with the Advisory Council to develop a whole of government LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy.
Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council, Penny Sharpe said:
"There has been incredible progress to advance the equality and inclusivity of LGBTQIA+ communities in NSW but there is more to do."
"The advisory Council is an election commitment that will help us do that work."
