421-05 Reform of the Queensland Criminal Code to allow equal protection and support of all youth, regardless of their sexuality or of their gender

Eligibility - Citizens of Queensland
Principal Petitioner:
J Frame
82 Main Avenue
WAVELL HEIGHTS QLD 4012
Total Signatures - 740
Sponsoring Member: Simon Finn MP
Posting Date: 31/01/2005
Closing Date: 31/07/2005
Tabled Date: 09/08/2005
Referred to: Referred Minister on 10/08/2005
Responded By: Hon Linda Lavarch MP on 22/03/2006
TO: The Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland

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.