Queensland citizens draws to the attention of the House the current Queensland Criminal Code discriminates against 16 and 17 year old youth by criminalising one possible sexual activity, anal intercourse, with penalties of up to 14 years gaol. As a result Queensland youth are denied vital safe sex education regarding this sexual activity. Further, gay and bisexual youth, in particular are denied peer acceptance and community support because of this law. The age of consent of 16 needs to be applied equally to all Queensland youth to ensure that sexually active people between 16-18 years of age are able to: • receive advice and support in relation to a range of sexual activities • undertake consenting sexual activity without fear of legal penalties. Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to take action immediately to establish a truly equal age of consent by removing sections 208 and 209 of the Queensland Criminal Code Act 1899.