“Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, included and valued.” On Thursday, Launceston City Council voted unanimously to support Launceston’s first LGBTIQA+ Action Plan.
Launceston joins the other Tasmanian municipalities of Kingborough, Glenorchy, Hobart and Burnie in having developed and released LGBTIQA+ action plans.
The Action Plan includes commitments for council staff training in LGBTIQA+ issues, support for pride events and workshops for businesses and service clubs.
It also includes the development of a central information point for LGBTIQA-inclusive services in the city and support for LGBTIQA+ public art and historical interpretation.
Cooperation with state government agencies includes the police and health organisations as well as a city-wide LGBTIQA+ anti-stigma campaign, and the scoping and development of a pride hub.
The unanimous vote was preceded by heartfelt pleas to councillors from members of the community. Including young trans woman Amilie Courtney, gay dad Brad Cullen, Working It Out staff member Joe McLelland, public health academic Tamara Reynish, and Equality Tasmania representative Rodney Croome.
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The Action Plan’s cover features a photo from 1994 of Launcestonians protesting an anti-gay rally in the Albert Hall.
Dr Reynish, a member of the Council’s LGBTIQA+ advisory group, said, “I’m excited to see what’s next for our city.”
The Action Plan’s cover photo of Launcestonians protesting an anti-gay rally in 1994.Image Supplied
“The acceptance of the LGBTIQA+ Action Plan by the City of Launceston is important because it recognises that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, included and valued in our city.”
“The implementation of the LGBTIQA+ Action Plan will have a profound impact on the wellbeing of our community and demonstrates that diversity is a strength to be embraced.”
“This Action Plan is of great benefit to Launceston as the research shows us that inclusive communities benefit from a wider range of perspectives, experiences and ideas. They are more innovative, compassionate and resilient.”
The advisory group will continue to work with the Council on the Action Plan’s implementation.
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