Despite years of progress, prejudice and injustice is still faced by the LGBTIQA+ community.

Darebin City Council is currently developing an Action Plan to support the inclusion, rights, and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ individuals. 

However, there are no specific provisions under state law to protect LGBTIQA+ people from vilification and hate speech.

In Victoria alone, one in three LGBTIQA+ people have experienced harassment or violence due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

This highlights the urgent need for strengthened anti-vilification laws at both state and local levels.

Darebin City Council has a unique opportunity to lead by example. 

By including measures in its LGBTIQA+ Action Plan that both advocate for stronger anti-vilification laws state-wide and implement anti-vilification provisions under its Local Laws, Darebin City Council can provide much-needed protection against hate for LGBTIQA+ community members.

Every individual should feel safe, respected, and valued within Darebin.

Therefore, we urge Darebin City Council to incorporate actions into their LGBTIQA+ Action Plan that will protect the LGBTIQA+ community from hate.