NSW officials have been warned that “the world is watching” their response to calls to ban gay conversion practices. The comments were made at a launch event for Sydney’s WorldPride festival, which celebrates LGBTQ+ pride and will run for 17 days. Activities will include parties, a human rights conference and a march across the Harbour Bridge. Earlier this month, independent MP for Sydney, Alex Greenwich, confirmed that he would introduce a bill to outlaw the practices in the state following the forthcoming election. The Labor opposition has pledged support, along with the survivors of the practices and cross-bench politicians.
The New South Wales tourism minister, Ben Franklin, said he personally opposed conversion therapy, but would wait for a public policy response from the premier, Dominic Perrottet. The treasurer, Matt Kean, also offered his support for reform. Equality Australia’s chief executive, Anna Brown, urged Perrottet to match Labor’s commitment, arguing that the government should show that it supported the LGBTI community “365 days of the year”. The chief executive of Mardi Gras, Albert Kruger, urged politicians to back the move to ban gay conversion therapy, and reminded the public that the fight for equality was not yet over.
Sydney WorldPride’s chief executive, Kate Wickett, stressed that the event advocated for equality and safety, and that she opposed the practices. In preparation for the festival, which starts on Friday, extra transport services will be offered. Sydney’s Inner West council has also secured an extension of trading hours until 2am for over 40 pubs and clubs.