Labor conference support for same-sex adoption welcomed / Call on Tas Gov act swiftly on adoption equality

This media release was issued by the TGLRG on 6.8.11

Tasmanian gay activists have welcomed the State Labor Conference's support for same-sex adoption.

The motion in favour of equal adoption laws was passed late this afternoon by a significant majority.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, called on the State Government to act swiftly on the Labor motion by introducing legislation to allow same-sex couples to adopt.

"Tasmania's unequal adoption laws send the message that same-sex parents and their families are second-rate", Mr Croome said.

"They also prevent same-sex adoption when it is in the best interests of the child, including where a child is being fostered by a same-sex couple."

Since 2003 step-parent adoption has been available to same-sex couples in Tasmania, but they are barred from adopting children relinquished by other people.

Only one or two Tasmanian children a year require adoption by non-related couples, but same-sex couples are permitted to foster and there are instances where the foster child would benefit from adoption by his or her same-sex foster parents.

Earlier this year the Tasmanian Government moved to legalise altruistic surrogacy arrangements, including those involving same-sex couples.

The State Labor Conference is expected to debate a motion in support of same-sex marriage tomorrow.

For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0499 010 668.