Tasmania is taking the lead with historic reform to target LGBTQIA+ convictions by offering compensation to those previously penalised for homosexuality and cross-dressing offences.
The two bills have received bipartisan support and are currently being debated in Tasmanian Parliament in an effort to expunge historical offences under former laws.
The move aims to improve the state’s historically dark relationship with the LGBTQIA+ community after refusing to decriminalise same sex marriage between men until 1997, making them the last state in Australia to adopt changes.
Image: Photo by Sophie Emeny on Unsplash
Produced By: Emma Wotzke
Featured In Story: Rodney Croome – Equality Tasmania Spokesperson
First aired on The Wire, Friday 26 September 2025