[i]The impact of changes to pension entitlements for same-sex couples and the lack of information from or co-operation by Centrelink in the implementation of these changes. We recommend ‘grandfathering’ the changes for those already receiving income support, especially those over 55 years.[/i]

Many gay people lobbied for and supported the government’s long overdue recognition of same-sex couples in federal legislation and regulation. We support equality for all Australians. However the transition from inequality and exclusion, to equality and inclusion needs to consider the impact on the more vulnerable members of our community.

Older lesbian and gay people have lived in an Australia where homosexual acts were illegal, where a blind-eye was turned to discrimination, where abuse, intimidation and physical violence was commonplace, and where their same-sex relationships (and the benefits and responsibilities which come with marriage) were not recognised by the State.

Gay men have lived through the horrors of the HIV epidemic, with many still living with HIV, but unable to return to work due to ongoing sickness. The financial costs on individuals and couples has compounded the physical costs.

Now, finally their relationships are to be recognised and the first tangible impact of this recognition is a reduction in income support for many. This is not fair.

Same-sex couples have had to arrange their finances as two independent people. They have received none of the financial benefits or entitlements afforded by the State to married couples. Older LGBT people have planned their retirement finances on this basis. Now, because they will be treated as a “marriage-like” relationship, one or both partners will have their pension income reduced or stopped completely.

LGBT senior support organisations are already receiving calls from worried seniors and people with HIV, afraid of what will happen to them and afraid of Centrelink investigating their lives and relationships. Many are unwilling to seek information or support from Centrelink (even accessing their website) for fear that Centrelink will track them down and cut their pension. Many have never talked publicly or to government services about their relationship.

There has been a lack of information through LGBT community communication channels about the changes and what they mean, and a lack of independent advice available to LGBT people affected by the changes from services they can trust. People have not had the information or time to make the necessary changes to their finances.and there has been no attempt by Centrelink to organise public education campaigns and asking about support for individuals.

Consideration needs to be given to how these changes will affect LGBT people already in receipt of income support, just as consideration has been provided to other groups when major changes to the income support system were introduced in the past.

Recommendations
- ‘grandfathering’ the introduction of these changes for those already receiving income support, especially those over 55
- funding independent financial advice and advocacy services for those affected by the changes
- communication by Centrelink, using LGBT communication channels and in partnership with LGBT community organisations, on what these changes will mean and how they will be introduced.

More information

[url=http://www.thesenior.com.au/news.asp?publication=SA&articletype;=general%20news&ArticleID;=1038]The Senior[/url]

[url=http://www.smh.com.au/news/opinion/gay-couples-to-face-new-era-of-financial-discrimination/2008/12/05/1228257316542.html]Sydney Morning Herald[/url]