Equal age of consent reform in Queensland, Australia

The state of Queensland is the only region in Australia which has a "sodomy law" which defines a higher age of consent at 18 for homosexual male intercourse than for heterosexual intercourse (which is 16). The severe penalty for any offender is up to 14 years imprisonment. Queensland is also the only region where 17 year olds are tried as adults (it is 18 everywhere else in Australia).

Equal age of consent reform is necessary so that same gender attracted youth can expect to be protected and supported by the law in true equity with their heterosexual peers and siblings.

The current law only serves to reinforce institutionalised homophobia, leaving same gender attracted youth at increased risk of harassment, abuse, depression and suicide. They may also face increased risk of HIV infection through reduced self-esteem and impeded delivery of vital STI health education.
 
Queensland's Labor Government refuses to discuss any possibility of equal age of consent reform, even though their official Policy Platform specifically supports it.

In April 2007 Queensland Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Susan Booth stated that "The current provisions of the Criminal Code that impose different ages when people can lawfully participate in sexual intercourse are not consistent with the objects of the Anti-Discrimination Act. These laws discriminate on the basis of sexuality. The Anti-Discrimination Act requires that everyone should be equal before the law %u2013 and that includes equal benefit of the law, without discrimination. I support the removal of the provisions that discriminate against same sex attracted young people."

Please add your voice (from wherever you are in the world) to help ensure that all Queensland youth are treated with equity.