Just.Equal Australia has called on political leaders to debate issues that matter to trans people, including inclusive health care and reducing discrimination, instead of conducting culture wars at trans people's expense. 

 

Just.Equal spokesperson, Sally Goldner AM, has called on all parties and candidates to listen to trans, gender diverse and non-binary (TGDNB or trans) people and their families during the election campaign, before commenting on the issues that affect trans people. 

 

The call follows comments by Scott Morrison regarding trans women competing in womens’ sports in which Mr Morrison said opponents of trans inclusion such as Senator Claire Chandler are "brave". 

 

“Trans people want the real issues we face to be debated", Ms Goldner said. 

 

"These include day-to-day basic rights such as inclusive and equitable health care, identity documents that affirm who we are, a reduction in the discrimination and violence we disproportionally experience and funding of trans-led projects.” 

 

“We reject the constant raising of ‘faux’ culture-war issues that fail to take our interests into account and at times show blatant disregard for our health, wellbeing and lives, often in ways that promote ridicule and hatred.” 

 

"It's time to recognise that there's nothing brave about attacking trans people, but that courage instead lies in addressing the real problems we face." 

 

Goldner urged trans people and their family and allies to question candidates of all parties in depth during the campaign. 

 

The results of Just.Equal’s detailed survey of LGBTIQA+ people and allies regarding priorities, to be released soon, will provide further prompts for questions to ask those nominating for the election. 

 

“If trans and LGBTIQA+ issues are important to you, find out where candidates in both houses stand before casting your vote.” 

 

For a copy of this statement on the web, click here