Have your say before the last day

Queenslanders are being encouraged to have their say about the final two discussion papers released as part of the review of the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003 (BDM Registration Act).

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the two papers explored how legislation underpinning life’s major milestones remains relevant and responds to the needs of the community.

“I encourage you to have your say because it will impact you at some point in your life,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“The first discussion paper released last year sought people’s views on how legislation could improve legal recognition of sex and gender diverse Queenslanders.

“Now, the community can have a say about the operation of the registry as a whole.”

Mrs D’Ath said in this increasingly digitised age there is a greater demand for the release of historical and non-historical information, as well as information for data matching purposes.

“One of the discussion papers released today explores this demand, including the factors that need to be considered to ensure the right balance is struck between protecting a person’s right to privacy and sharing information for legitimate purposes, such as preventing identity fraud,” she said.

Mrs D’Ath said the other discussion paper released examines the process of registering life events, such as births, deaths, marriages and civil unions, and whether the services offered by the registry are efficient, effective and easy to use.

“As the registry increasingly becomes a more digitised service, we need to ensure it is within reach for all members of the community,” she said.

“At the end of the public consultation on the three discussion papers, the Palaszczuk Government will carefully consider all feedback before considering potential changes.”

For further information about the BDMR Act review and access to the two final discussion papers please visit www.justice.qld.gov.au/bdmactreview or lodge your submission via the Get involved website www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au. Submissions close on April 23.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Emma McBryde 0447 155 332