Australia’s decision to exclude new questions about gender and sexual orientation from the upcoming census has sparked controversy and potential boycotts from LGBTQ citizens.
The government’s choice to not include questions about sexual and gender identity in the 2026 survey has disappointed supporters who were hopeful for a more comprehensive understanding of the population.
Finance minister Jim Chalmers defended the decision, citing concerns about potential divisive debates that could arise from including these questions.
However, critics, such as Independent Sydney lawmaker Alex Greenwich and Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown, have expressed frustration over the government’s backtrack on including these questions, labeling it as hurtful and dismissive.
The debate highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ inclusion and representation in official data collection, with concerns raised over the government’s willingness to address sensitive issues affecting marginalized communities.
© 2024 AFP
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