Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby - 22 April 2010 - GLRL demands an end to the NSW Government's inconsistent approach to parenting

22 April 2010 - GLRL demands an end to the NSW Government's inconsistent approach to parenting

As the NSW Government launches its largest appeal for foster carers, the NSW Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby (GLRL) demands an end to the inconsistency in the Government’s response to child welfare.

Linda Burney, Minister for Community Services stated: “We want to get the message out far wide, and start a public conversation about the importance of fostering and the urgent need for more people to take up this important role”.

Despite the calls from lesbian and gay foster carers, the NSW Government continues to deny same-sex couples the ability to apply to adopt children in their long-term care.

Kellie McDonald, Convenor of the GLRL stressed, “Denying couples the capacity to adopt children in long-term care discourages rather than promotes interest in fostering children”.

Senthorun Raj, Policy & Development Coordinator of the GLRL, added that, “Same-sex foster carers can apply for parenting orders, however, parenting orders only confer limited parental rights and expire once the child reaches the age of 18”.

Ms McDonald elaborated that, “The inconsistency between fostering and adoption laws means that children may be denied access to a parent’s superannuation, welfare, worker’s compensation, or death benefits because of the lack of a legally recognised relationship”.

Same-sex couples have been praised for their parenting and have been actively recruited by foster agencies. Ms Burney has previously stated that, “Lesbian and gay foster carers make a highly valued contribution to the NSW out-of-home care service system”.

Mr Raj emphasised, “If the Government accepts that sexual orientation is not a meaningful indicator of parenting, there is no reason for continued inaction on amending adoption laws”.

The GLRL demands immediate reform to NSW adoption law to end the inconsistency and unfair discrimination against same-sex couples and their families.

Take action by submiting a letter to the Premier, Deputy Premier and Minister for Community Services and contact your local MP and let them know that inaction on adoption reform is unacceptable.