Page 1190 - Week 04 - Wednesday, 29 March 2017
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acts of reconciliation with our nation’s first peoples. Actions must go with words. This government’s ongoing action to promote inclusion continues to serve the broader community. Despite people deciding to close their eyes as to what the ACT government is responsible for, it is clear that this is something that is within the responsibility and the power of this government. It is something that we are acting on and we will continue to act on.
On 3 April this year, amendments to the ACT Discrimination Act will commence that will expand and improve this community’s protections from discrimination. For the first time anywhere in Australia, because of the actions of this government, it will be unlawful to unreasonably discriminate against someone based on their accommodation status, their employment status or the fact that they are a victim of family violence.
Existing protections will be updated. For example, protection from discrimination on the basis of gender identity will be updated in line with recent law reforms, as will protection from discrimination for a person who has changed their registered sex.
The ACT Discrimination Act amendments were the result of extensive consultation undertaken by the Law Reform Advisory Council, noting the strong mood in this community against exclusion. At law, and in our community, this government is working hard and is acting to build a society where everyone belongs, where everyone is valued and where everyone can participate. I commend the motion.
MS CODY (Murrumbidgee) (10.38): I thank Mr Steel for bringing this motion forward. It is very dear to my heart. I rise today to recognise a value which is integral to our community here in the ACT: inclusion. Inclusion means more than just tolerance. Inclusion means more than just acceptance. Inclusion means respecting everyone, welcoming contribution and participation from all Canberrans regardless of gender, race or ability, and celebrating diversity so that everyone can enjoy their full potential and be welcomed by all.
While progress is always ongoing, I would like to celebrate the huge steps our community has made in embracing diversity. As a Labor government, we are committed to recognising and realising the potential of everyone in our community. Social inclusion and equality are always at the forefront of Labor’s plans in government.
I understand the importance of an inclusive community in enabling all ACT residents to live a meaningful and enjoyable life. I know the value of work being done every day to improve outcomes for the vulnerable in our society. We have such a diverse and creative community, and we must celebrate that at every possible opportunity.
Today I would like to highlight four particular areas where diversity and inclusion are celebrated in our community. Firstly, I would like to use this opportunity to celebrate the incredible services provided by Sailability ACT. Sailability is a program that assists people of all abilities to enjoy sailing. For a young mother, raising a child with autism, Sailability provided a caring, nurturing and inclusive environment for my son. Through the dedication of skilled volunteers, Sailability allows people of all abilities
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