Recognition For Homosexuals (Press, 7 August 1984)

On 7 August 1984, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (A.B.C.) made a significant decision to extend staff benefits to homosexual partners of its employees. This move officially recognises homosexual relationships for various staff entitlements, which include bereavement leave, removal costs, and accommodation provisions in remote areas. The decision is part of A.B.C.'s broader equal employment opportunity plan, as stated by the chairman, Mr Ken Myer. Mr Myer outlined additional initiatives that accompany this decision, including reserving training course placements for members of disadvantaged employment groups, setting targets for the recruitment of women in under-represented job areas, and abolishing age discrimination in recruitment processes, particularly for training courses. He emphasised that the A.B.C. aims to enhance employment opportunities for several disadvantaged groups, including women, Aboriginal Australians, migrants from non-English speaking backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. The response to this announcement was mixed. Federal Opposition spokesman on communications, Mr Bruce Lloyd, expressed his disapproval, stating that he was shocked by A.B.C.'s decision to equate homosexual de facto relationships with marriage. He argued that this move does not align with existing legislation or the prevailing attitudes within the community. In contrast, the homosexual community celebrated the decision as a groundbreaking development. A spokesman for the community, Aiderman Brian McGahen, referred to the announcement as an important precedent for recognising and validating homosexual relationships within institutional frameworks. This landmark decision reflects shifting attitudes towards equality in the workplace and signals a gradual acceptance of homosexual partnerships in Australian society. The A.B.C.'s actions represent a notable step towards broader inclusivity and recognition within institutional policies at the time.

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