Here's why ReachOut backs marriage equality

20 September 2017

At ReachOut Australia we strongly support a ‘yes’ vote in the marriage equality postal survey.

We care for all young people. Importantly, we care for those who are most vulnerable and at greater risk of harm.

The evidence shows that young LGBTQIA+ people experience high levels of discrimination, whether verbal, physical, cyberbullying, and social exclusion. The evidence also shows that young LGBTQIA+ people have poorer mental health, including higher rates of anxiety and depression, and are more likely to attempt suicide.

We believe the current debate to change the law to allow same-sex couples to marry is harmful to young LGBTQIA+ people, and this is why mental health services, like ReachOut, are seeing an increase in service demand.

An overwhelming ‘yes’ vote is an opportunity to address discrimination, and show young LGBTQIA+ people they are supported, valued and have a positive future in Australia.