Drummond Street Services and Queerspace express our extreme disappointment that the “Religious Discrimination Bill” passed the House of Representatives overnight.
We know this is upsetting for many of our staff, clients and others in the community. We encourage you to reach out to those around you if you need support or contact our counselling service on 03 9663 6733 or 1800 LGBTIQ (9am – 5pm) or for Queer Peer Support contact QLife on 1800 184 527 (3pm – 12am). If you are in danger, phone 000 or 1800 RESPECT for family violence & sexual assault support (24hrs).
Don’t lose hope as it can still be stopped in the Senate and if not, has the potential to be challenged in the High Court!
Five Liberals crossed the floor to successfully remove provisions that allowed discrimination against LGBTQ+ students, but as we know staff and other support staff can still be discriminated against.
Queerspace/Drummond Street Services stand against all of the bill and encourage all parties and individuals with a conscience to vote it down. As one of the oldest welfare organisations in Australia, we have seen and understand the real and very serious harms caused by discrimination, isolation, and bigotry.
We oppose all forms of discrimination and stand with all LGBTIQ people, women and minorities who are currently under threat of being discriminated against in the guise of religious beliefs.
It must stop here!
Drummond Street/Queerspace encourage those who can attend the next protest against the Bill and to write to relevant politicians.
From Queerspace and Drummond Street Services Executive
