Homosexuality Decision (Press, 13 October 1971)

On 12 October 1971, the Anglican Synod in Melbourne voted to support the legalisation of homosexual acts in private between consenting males. This decision followed a report from the synod's social questions committee, which was chaired by barrister Mr J. F. Patrick. During the debate, Mr Patrick highlighted the estimated figure of 100,000 homosexual Anglicans in Australia, asserting that if homosexual acts do not harm society, there should be no criminal penalties imposed upon them. He framed the issue as one between the individual and God, rather than society and the individual. Mr Patrick noted that Anglican doctrine does not categorically label homosexuality as a sin, and the committee’s report deliberately refrained from taking a stance on the moral implications of homosexual acts. He clarified that the report was not a proclamation of support for homosexuality, but rather a call for a more compassionate societal perspective towards homosexual individuals. He characterised current laws against homosexuality as unjust, cruel, and unkind. While advocating for the decriminalisation of private homosexual acts, the report did stipulate certain conditions under which such acts should still be punishable. These included situations where one partner is forced into an act, instances where consent is deemed ineffective, acts conducted in public, and interactions involving individuals under the age of 18. Additionally, the report recommended maintaining the illegality of homosexual acts within the armed forces, citing the need for discipline and mutual respect among service members.

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