These actions are reinforced by previous endorsements of marriage equality by Council in July 2015 and again in December 2016. Although Council believes marriage equality should be achieved via a free vote in the Federal Parliament, support is being provided to the 'Yes' campaign for the period of the national Marriage Law Postal Survey. Our support for marriage equality reflects our commitment to a community free from discrimination, with respect and dignity for all.
We have been flying the rainbow flag above Preston City Hall since 17 May 2017, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) . The flag will remain flying until marriage equality is achieved in Australia. It is a symbol of solidarity with and support for the LGBTIQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer) community that live, work and study in Darebin.
We will continue to deliver support to the 'Yes' campaign over the coming months until the postal survey process in complete. Read the resolution in full.
What Role Does Council Have In This Issue?
It is a common misconception that Council’s role is to mend potholes and collect rubbish. In reality local government’s role is multi-faceted. The Victorian Local Government Act clearly mandates Councils to represent the interests of all its residents and rate payers and to provide leadership and guidance to the community. Councils are also mandated to protect and promote the health and wellbeing of communities through their Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan.
In addition, both the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (2006) and the Victorian Equal Opportunity Act Vic (2010) place a ‘positive duty’ on Councils to be proactive and take steps to address and eliminate inequality, discrimination and human rights violations in the communities they represent.
This gives us a clear mandate to be working on the achievement of marriage equality. A significant proportion of our population identify as LGBTIQ. Council supports the right of all people to be recognised as equal citizens and treated with respect and dignity.
Useful Resources
The marriage equality debate is having a major impact on the community. Below are some resources that contain tips and contact details for support networks that might help if you are struggling during this time:
The Australian Psychological Society has released tools for communicating about marriage equality that provides helpful tips for constructive ways to talk about marriage equality - one aimed at adults and one aimed at children:
We have produced a flyer and poster to send the message into the community that Darebin Council supports marriage equality. We encourage residents, schools, shops, local services, everyone to print and display these posters in front windows, waiting rooms, learning spaces, fridge doors – wherever support for marriage equality needs to be seen and heard.