The 40th anniversary of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras was a magnificent celebration of pride, diversity and unswerving commitment to equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people, said Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow.

“Marriage equality was colourfully celebrated during this year’s Mardi Gras parade. Our history gives us hope that we can now come together to respect and honour the wonderful diversity of our community,” Commissioner Santow said.

When the Australian Human Rights Commission released its Same-Sex: Same Entitlements report, 58 federal laws were identified as discriminating against same-sex couples and in some cases, their children.

The Australian Human Rights Commission acknowledges International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on 17 May 2017.

“International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia is an important opportunity to reflect on the progress made nationally and globally to reduce violence, harassment, stigma and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people,” said Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow.

“The day also reminds us how much there is still to do,” Commissioner Santow said.

LGBTI people in Africa are frequently subjected to extreme violence and discrimination, based purely on their sexual orientation and identity. Today, the Australian Human Rights Commission will launch an educational resource pack which has been developed with and for African national human rights institutions, civil society organisations and local community groups to encourage learning and awareness of sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status (SOGII).

“Overwhelming support for same-sex marriage reminds us that Australians understand equality before the law extends to marriage for same-sex couples,” said Human Rights Commissioner Tim Wilson.

Mr Wilson’s comments follow today’s release of a Cosby/Textor poll, commissioned by Australian Marriage Equality. The poll shows almost three-quarters of Australians (72%) now support changes to marriage laws to include same-sex couples.