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Relationship Register becomes law

Rights Lobby encourages couples to still hold a ceremony to celebrate

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate release: 11 April 2008

The Relationships Bill 2007 (Vic) has passed the Victorian Parliament, introducing for the first time in mainland Australia a registry for same sex and opposite sex couples to have their relationship formally recognised. Couples will be able to register their relationship with the Victorian registry of Births, Deaths & Marriage when it comes into effect on or before 1 December 2008.

"The Victorian Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby (VGLRL) is pleased that this historic bill has passed the parliament and will soon come into effect." said Mr Stephen Jones, VGLRL Co-convenor. "We are however, disappointed that the government and opposition voted against the Greens' amendments including allowing an option for a ceremony as part of the official registration process. Celebration is a central part of recognising a loving and committed relationship and we encourage couples to hold a ceremony or party to celebrate their special day."

The bill passed the upper house on 10th March 2008 with a resounding vote of support from both sides of the house with only 9 members voting against it. The bill passed the lower house on 12th March 2008 with bi-partisan support. A similar register has existed in Tasmania since 2004.

Same-sex couples have been legally recognised as domestic partners under Victorian law since 2001; however this may be difficult for them to prove. Couples who register their relationship will have a simple conclusive document that enables their relationship to be recognised under Victorian law. The Act also provides provisions for the dissolution of their relationship.

"This is a historic day for gay & lesbian Victorians." said Mr Jones. "The Victorian government has removed the burden currently on same-sex couples of repeatedly proving the existence of their relationship. This simple and easy tool will show to people within the community that gay & lesbian couples are no different from opposite sex couples. Many individuals and organisations have worked tirelessly over the past 10 years to secure appropriate relationship recognition for samesex couples in Victoria - for which I thank them."

For media comment, contact Stephen Jones on 0417 484 438