For all of us, it is great to know that there is support where we need it – whether that be family or friends or colleagues at work.  Sometimes it’s also great to know that on some of the bigger issues, our community and political leaders are also on side.  And so it is with the new “Parliamentary Friendship Group for LGBTI Australians”.

This week I attended the launch event of this new group, which is supported by Telstra, who is also my corporate sponsor.  The event was held in Canberra and brought together federal members and senators of Parliament from all political persuasions to discuss issues like aged care, legal and social issues relating to LGBTI people – everything from transgender law reform to LGBTI youth issues.

Federal Member for Leichhardt & Chief Opposition Whip, The Hon Warren Entsch MP who is behind the creation of the group, joined Federal Member for Moreton, Graham Perrett MP and Senator for SA, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young to bring the group together.  Around 30 of their parliamentary colleagues were at the launch, along with many influential community stakeholders – so we have lots of friends in high places.

Telstra’s Paul Geason, Group Managing Director and Executive Sponsor of GLBTI Inclusion on Telstra’s Diversity Council spoke at the launch saying that, “the challenges faced by LGBTI Australians are numerous and significant – ranging from bullying in schools and workplaces through to outdated legislation or unique health needs.  As one of Australia’s largest companies, with one of the largest diversified customer, staff and shareholder bases, Telstra acknowledges these challenges and firmly believes that overcoming them, making us a fairer society and achieving corporate success can only come if we reflect this diversity.”

My own view is that for Australia to be all it can be, and for all Australians to achieve their true potential, fairness and inclusion are key.  For the LGBTI community, of which I am a proud member, this means that broad support from across all levels of the community can help us gain full acceptance.  Support from the Parliamentary Friends and companies like Telstra are a big part of this.

Find out more about Telstra’s approach to Diversity & Inclusion here online