Shame file

Less choice, more discrimination

While same-sex couples have been recognised in the Federal Government's proposed anti-terrorism legislation, the same recognition has not been extended to the WorkChoices legislation.

The Rights Australia website reported (November 2) criticism from the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby, focussed on the WorkChoices legislation's failure to recognise same-sex relationships under the definition of de facto spouse, leaving same-sex couples without rights such as carer's leave, adoption leave, and parental leave.

The website said the WorkChoices legislation defines de facto spouse as "a person of the opposite sex", and does not include same-sex partner within the definition of immediate family for the purposes of determining eligibility for carer's leave.

Rights Australia reported the exclusive definition of de facto spouse will prevent many gay and lesbian parents from accessing parental leave to look after their children. In the states and territories where same-sex couples can adopt, these couples will not be entitled to adoption leave.

Rural fire fighting volunteers

RFSA executive officer Ken Harris said volunteer rural fire fighters play a vital role in protecting the lives and property of the people of NSW, and any erosion of awards will seriously put these volunteer services at risk.

Mr Harris said the RFSA's concern was that the industrial relations laws would mean that volunteer rural fire fighters would no longer have award protection to participate in fire fighting activities, which could be negotiated away.

"This is particularly galling in the lead up to our bushfire season. Our volunteer rural fire fighters need to be protected in their industrial awards to allow them time off work, and to take part in vital fire fighting activities and emergency responses, such as motor vehicle accidents particularly in the country areas."

The RFSA represents the state's 70,000 rural fire fighters.

Mr Harris said the key role of the RFSA was to look after the well being of RFSA members, who give up countless hours protecting their community, and to ensure they are fit, prepared and able to serve the needs of the people of NSW.

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Last Modified: 08 Dec 2005