Gay Pensioners forced to come out

By Amy Henderson

The Queensland Association for Healthy Communities has joined a growing number of organisations calling for the Federal Government to implement a 'grandfather clause' to protect older GLBT citizens from being unfairly disadvantaged by changes to the welfare system.

The reforms, which come into effect on 1 July, require couples claiming any type of social security payment to inform Centrelink of their relationship status, causing concern from certain parts of the GLBT community.

'Whilst the changes to the laws that have discriminated against same sex couples are warmly welcomed by the community, there are some people for whom these changes could be devastating,' said Graham Douglas-Meyer, chairman of GRAI (GLBTI Retirement Association Incorporated).

According to Mr Douglas-Meyer, old age and disability pensioners will be hardest hit by the changes. He says older gays and lesbians have not been able to prepare for such a change and may have to reassess their retirement plans.

'Many same sex partnerships maintain mostly separate financial arrangements and may not wish their personal details to be exposed.
'Or, as in the case of many aged gays and lesbians who have kept their relationships hidden for fear of retribution are being forced to “Come-Out” because otherwise they may find themselves at the wrong end of the legal system.' He said.

'Forcing elderly gays and lesbians out of the closet is never acceptable.'

According to GRAI, these problems could be minimized if the government includes a 'grandfather' clause in the legislation, meaning that the laws would be introduced in such a way as to protect an older generation. Those people already in the system would have more time and help to adjust to the situation.

A grandfather clause has been included with every other significant change to social security laws in the last 15 years, leading many to question why these law changes would be any different.

Queensland Association for Healthy Communities (QAHC) in association with Welfare Rights Centre (Qld) is currently in the process or organising a community forum in Brisbane in March to inform the community about these changes and how they can have their voices heard.

QAHC President Paul Martin told QNews “We believe that current transitional arrangements are insufficient to support vulnerable people, especially seniors. We believe that those over 55 years currently in receipt of payments should not be affected, and all others should have a year (until 1st July 2010) to get their finances in order before their payments are affected.”

QAHC Information evening will be held Thursday 12 March, 6:30pm. QAHC Head office 30 Helen Street, Newstead.

Centrelink has opened a hotline for all inquiries and additional information on the changes - 13 62 80.