Katie Allen (Higgins, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm proud of what Liberals have achieved for our LGTBI community in Victoria and Australia. Many of the most significant pieces of legislation to improve the lives of the LGBTI community were delivered by Liberal governments. That is why I was delighted to join the Liberal Pride Branch last weekend for the 2020-21 Midsumma Pride March through the streets of St Kilda.

The Pride March this year marks 40 years since the former Hamer Liberal government decriminalised homosexuality in Victoria. Hamer's reforms were then backed up in 1995 by former Victorian Liberal Premier Jeff Kennett, who legislated the first antidiscrimination protection laws for LGBTI Victorians. And, of course, thousands of rainbow families have celebrated marriage since the Turnbull coalition government legislated same-sex marriage in 2017—something we should all celebrate. This year, the Morrison government provided $6.2 million towards the ongoing battle against HIV, with expanded access to Dovato on the PBS.

This year 8,000 fabulous people participated in the Pride March, representing 240 diverse groups, pride organisations and allies—all donning their best attire; all standing for love, diversity, solidarity and pride. I'm proud to be a member of the Victorian Liberal Pride Branch, ably led by President Heath Wilson. I'm proud to be a member and I'm proud of what Liberal governments have achieved for the LGBTI community in Australia.