The NSW Government has announced the establishment of an inaugural LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council with ACON President Dr Justin Koonin as the Co-Chair.
The LGBTIQ+ Advisory Council’s 16 members reflect the rich diversity of LGBTIQ+ communities in NSW, and its first task will be to work with the government to develop NSW’s first LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy. The Council brings together a vibrant mix of voices, from national trailblazers to local champions, spanning generations, each making their mark on both the state and the country. Members were selected based on their lived experience, expertise, and dedication to advocating for LGBTIQ+ inclusion and equity.
Read the full media release from the NSW Government here.
“There are legal, social and health issues that continue to impact the human rights, safety and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ people in NSW,” says Dr Koonin.
“As Co-Chair of the Council I am looking forward to working with members to ensure the NSW Government has direct access to the communities’ experiences, ideas and solutions. I am proud to be part of a Council that will work towards equality for all.”
Members of the Council will work closely with the NSW Government to provide insights and recommendations on issues affecting LGBTIQ+ communities, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in policy-making processes.
Below is the full list of LGBTQ+ community members who have been appointed to the Council, and will serve a two-year term:
- Robyn Kennedy (Co-Chair) (she/her)
- Dr Justin Koonin (Co-Chair) (he/him)
- Anna Brown OAM (she/her)
- Dr Morgan Carpenter (he/him)
- Danny Dalton (he/him)
- Brad Farrugia (he/him)
- Will Lawrence (he/him, they/them)
- Veronica Mason (she/her)
- Benjamin Oh (he/him, they/them)
- Dr Chris Pepin-Neff (they/them)
- Dr Victoria Rawlings (she/her)
- Ian Roberts (he/him)
- Nicholas Stewart (he/him)
- Dr Chris Townley (they/she)
- Kelly Young (she/her)
- Charlie Zada (he/him)