Nominate now to help improve the lives of LGBTI Queenslanders

The State Government has put the call out for nominations from Queenslanders to join the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Roundtable for 2017.

Minister for Communities Shannon Fentiman today encouraged nominations from community members across the state who would like to play a part in shaping government policy and strategies that affect the lives of LGBTI Queenslanders and their families.

“It is widely acknowledged that LGBTI Queenslanders still experience significant hurdles and barriers in the course of daily life,” she said.

“It is extremely important that we acknowledge that the LGBTI community is truly diverse, as such it is important to understand what the core needs of each group are and build on past engagement to achieve future successes.

“Members of the Roundtable will have the opportunity to discuss issues impacting on Queensland’s LGBTI community and provide feedback on government policies, strategies and programs that affect them.

“This Roundtable is a truly effective way to come together to create real change to improve the lives of those in the LGBTI community.”

Ms Fentiman said the Roundtable membership would comprise ten representatives from LGBTI communities in Queensland, ensuring voices from across the state are heard.

“We’re seeking nominations from a range of applicants across the state who can represent the diversity of LGBTI Queenslanders,” she said.

“In between official meetings, representatives may participate in working groups to consider specific topics and report back on progress to the Roundtable”. 

“If you are aware of the concerns of the LGBTI community and their families, are involved in community initiatives and have well developed community networks, I welcome your nomination.

“This Roundtable forms part of the Queensland Government commitment to creating a fair, cohesive and vibrant Queensland that responds to the needs of all people including LGBTI Queenslanders.”

The LGBTI Roundtable will meet three times per year in Brisbane, with the first Roundtable meeting to be held in the last quarter of 2017.  

Representatives of the LGBTI community are encouraged to apply including:

•          those from a rural or remote area;
•          young people (18 to 25 years);
•          people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander;
•          older Queenslanders (60 and over); and
•          people with a disability.

Nominations are open now and will close at 5pm on Monday 24 July 2017. 

For more information visit: https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/communityservices/community-support/lgbti

Media Contact:          Ron Goodman             0428 744 749