I make a brief contribution to debate on the Equality Legislation Amendment (LGBTIQA+) Bill 2023. Today is about equality, respect and dignity. The detail of the bill has been covered by many members, so I will not go through it again. I acknowledge the Premier and the Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council, who have said today that, as a government, we have been committed to equality for a long time and supporting the bill is our latest step in ensuring that every citizen in New South Wales is valued.

I am a member of the Legislative Assembly Committee on Community Services, which undertook an inquiry into the bill to listen to people's views about equality. We discussed whether, as a society, we have a common and shared view around the concept of equality and whether equality in law was achievable. This bill is a huge step towards that. I quote from my friend the good member Sydney. In 2024 he said, "All residents in New South Wales should be treated with dignity and respect", but he sadly hears a number of stories from the LGBTIQA+ community from across the State about lawful discrimination that impacts on their health and wellbeing. This bill presents a clear pathway to improving the safety and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people in ensuring that they can live their best lives.

I acknowledge Rainbow Labor, particularly Mits Delisle, who spent some time talking with me in the final days of us pushing to ensure that this debate went ahead today. I thank them for sharing personal and very powerful stories. I was contacted, like many members in this place, by a range of people over many months who had polarised views. I assure my community that I read and listened to all of those views. But we cannot stand in this place and debate and pass legislation that is not grounded in respect and dignity. That is why I am speaking today. Finally, I acknowledge one of the many people who wrote to me. Glenda from Blaxland in the Blue Mountains said:

"Again, I thank you for your support of the LGBTIQA+ people in our community. I know you will strongly support the upcoming NSW LGBTIQA+ Equality Bill.

Earlier this year, my child … came out publicly. Her transition has been very smooth, with lots of support from all around her. We're happy that she's been accepted as who she is throughout the community.

I am looking forward to my daughter being able to have her ID changed … without gender modification surgery that is not necessary for many transitional people to be who they are."

We love you, we see you and I commend the bill to the House.