Queensland Age Of Consent equalised at 16 in September 2016

September 2026 will mark the 10th anniversary of the long overdue passing of legislation in Queensland to equalise the age of consent at 16 for all youth, and for all sexual activities.

This was achieved as an Election Promise fulfilled by Palaszczuk Labor. The Health Bill introduced by Health Minister Hon Cameron Dick identified that the old law, which had criminalised anal intercourse for any person aged under 16, by its very nature impeded youth aged under 16 from seeking and accessing vital health care relating to their chosen sexual activity. The Bill was only opposed by 2 Members Of Parliament (Katter Party). Palaszczuk Labor were proud to promote their progressive reform action.

Reform happened as a result of almost 17 years of my constantly lobbying both Labor and LNP Governments - and that was only possible due to active support by community organisations and individuals such as  Queensland Healthy Communities, Stonewall Medical Centre (especially Dr Wendell Rosevear OAM and Dr Neil Simmons), Qld Anti-Discrimination Commission, Hon Michael Kirby, Rainbow Labor, Peter Tatchell, 4ZZZfm, Tamara Tonite (Bris31 tv), Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (Brisbane)(especially Shelley Argent OAM) - and of course Change.org for including this petition.

In these past 10 years the sky has not fallen - the only change is that youth, of whatever age, can take it for granted that they are entitled to equal protection and benefit under Queensland Law and equal access to sexual health care.   

Thank you for your support.

best regards,

John Frame.