Specific matters considered

Update on legislative reforms

The Department of Justice and Community Safety provided updates on the Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Bill 2020 and Equal Opportunity Act reform.

Discussion commenced with congratulations to the group and to survivors of change or suppression practices on the passing of the Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Bill (the Bill) in February 2021. It was confirmed that the Bill received Royal Assent and is now an Act of Parliament. The Bill will come into operation in twelve months and the focus has now shifted to implementation.

The timing of the Equal Opportunity Act reforms, including amendments to remove and/or narrow religious exceptions, is being considered by government. Community engagement and consultation will form a key component of the reform program.

IBAC inquiry into the conduct of Victoria Police officers at the Hares & Hyenas bookstore

Marlo Baragwanath, Chief Executive Officer and Kylie Kilgour, Deputy Commissioner from IBAC and Tess Walsh, Assistant Commissioner from Victoria Police provided an update on recommendations made by IBAC in relation to its investigation into an incident involving Victoria Police at the Hares & Hyenas bookstore (named Operation Lynd) and the response of Victoria Police to these recommendations. Key areas of process change were explained as well as the need for ongoing culture change and education.

There was a robust discussion about the perceived lack of repercussions for the behaviour of Victoria Police members regarding this incident. Victoria Police reinforced its commitment to continue this conversation and engage with the Justice Working Group.

IBAC reflected on changes it is making to how it engages with diverse communities, including LGBTIQ communities, and invited feedback on its online service charter and fact sheets.

There was a commitment from IBAC and Victoria Police to continue working closely and constructively with the Justice Working Group.

LGBTIQ Legal Service

An update was provided on a proposal that has been developed to establish a LGBTIQ Legal Service. The proposal was based on the scoping report commissioned by the department and overseen by the Justice Working Group in 2019. 

Confirmation of work priorities for 2021

The work priorities of the LGBTIQ Justice Working Group were discussed considering the Government’s legislative reform agenda and work areas agreed in December 2020. Key focus areas for the first half of 2021 are:

  • Youth Justice policy and training
  • budget and resource allocations for LGBTIQ initiatives
  • understanding the implications and impacts the Mental Health Royal Commission final report
  • Equal Opportunity Act reforms.

Due to COVID-19, several priorities from 2020 were put on hold. The workplan has been reviewed and updated with priorities flagged for 2021. A discussion will be held at the next meeting to review content and actions for 2021.

Next meeting

The LGBTIQ Justice Working Group will next meet on 3 May 2021.