A turning point for older LBTI Aussies
A turning point in the treatment of older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people came at what was reportedly the nation’s first Parliamentary Friendship Group for LGBTI Australians, held last Tuesday (13 September 2011).
A turning point in the treatment of older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people came at what was reportedly the nation’s first Parliamentary Friendship Group for LGBTI Australians, held last Tuesday (13 September 2011).
Gathering at a reception inside Parliament House, a number of leading politicians attended what was described as a “historic moment” for older LGBTI people.
“I think it was also a historic moment for LGBTI aged care issues, particularly because Warren Entsch … spoke about aged care, as did Graham Perrett. I was really impressed,” ageing expert, Dr Jo Harrison told Gay News Network last week.
Dr Harrison said the event was a “turning point” for older LGBTI Australians.
“I just think [the night] was a fabulous moment for us in the history of people struggling for our elders,” she said.
Peter Hyndal, from the publication Gender Agenda, also remained optimistic about what the Friendship Group would mean for transgender and intersex issues.
“They’ve been really, really clear about saying there are things they want to correct which is certainly very welcomed for the community,” Mr Hyndal told Gay News Network.
The Friendship Group will now reportedly focus on issues and challenges facing the LGBTI community such as access to aged care, retirement, mental health services and estate planning.
