Who Deserves Your Vote In The 2025 Australian Federal Election?
The countdown is on. This Saturday, May 3rd, Australians head to the polls for the 2025 federal election. Knowing where the parties stand on LGBTQIA+ issues is essential. Making an informed choice helps shape the direction of the country for everyone. Equality Australia has again done the groundwork, surveying thousands in our communities and analysing party positions. So, before you grab that democracy sausage, let’s look at who’s promising what.
Parties with Strong LGBTQIA+ Policy Commitments
When it comes to consistent LGBTQIA+ support, it’s the Greens. According to Equality Australia’s analysis, they continue to champion wide-ranging LGBTQIA+ rights, focusing on stronger anti-discrimination laws, better healthcare access, including trans health, support for rainbow families, and tackling hate crimes.
Human Rights Watch also noted their plan for a comprehensive national Human Rights Bill. Stephen Bates, an out gay Greens MP who participated in Equality Australia’s recent Rainbow Votes Election Forum, is one of the voices pushing this agenda within the party.
The Australian Labor Party (ALP) currently governs and highlights its commitment to human rights for all Australians, pointing to the implementation of initiatives like the National Action Plan for the Health and Wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ People. However, the fight against prejudice remains.
As reported by the Guardian, Labor MP Julian Hill, an openly gay man, was targeted with homophobic banners over a major highway just weeks ago during the campaign. It’s a stark reminder, highlighted by community media, that progress still faces pushback.
Independent Voices and Key Seats
Beyond the major parties, independents play a significant role. In Sydney’s Wentworth electorate, which includes the iconic gay neighbourhood of Darlinghurst, Independent MP Allegra Spender is making waves. She actively engaged with community members at the Equality Australia Rainbow Votes Election Forum.
As reported by Mi3, Spender also recently launched a campaign on Grindr to connect directly. On her official website, Spender outlines her record, including pushing successfully for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the census and introducing amendments against serious vilification.
Looking ahead, she states her focus is on stopping discrimination against LGBTQIA+ students and teachers in religious schools and combating hate speech.
As Spender puts it on her site, “I’m proud to represent our LGBTIQ+ community and to fight for your rights and your safety… I will always stand-up for the values of our community – regardless of who is in government.”
Parties with Limited or Opposing LGBTQIA+ Policies
The Liberal-National Coalition has faced criticism from advocacy groups. Equality Australia’s comparative analysis suggests their policies sometimes fall short of community expectations on key rights issues. It’s worth noting, however, that Tim Wilson, an out gay man who previously held the seat of Goldstein, confirmed on his campaign website that he is running again for the Liberals.
Then there’s Clive Palmer’s party, now running under the Trump-inspired banner Trumpet Of Patriots (formerly the United Australia Party). Their stance has caused significant concern. SBS News reported on a controversial newspaper advert from the party stating, “there are only two genders — male and female,” which was removed by one publication after backlash. This incident underscores their opposition to inclusive policies and gender diversity.
This election presents clear choices on issues that directly impact safety, acceptance, and equality. Understanding where each party and candidate stands is crucial before casting your vote this Saturday.
For a detailed analysis of each party’s stance on LGBTQIA+ issues, visit Equality Australia.
