Today, over 850 medical students converge at the Australian Medical Students’ Association (AMSA)’s National Convention, as the association calls for changes to legislation to afford same-sex couples the right to marry.
AMSA recently passed policy that supports the rights of all people, regardless of sexual orientation, to marry under Australian law.
AMSA President Mr James Churchill said that it was high time politicians acted in accordance with their constituents’ opinions and supported the marriage equality legislation currently before parliament.
“We know that the majority of Australians support marriage equality, and it is important for politicians to step up and show that they represent Australians when it matters,” Mr Churchill said.
“Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex people experience higher rates of depression, suicide and anxiety and young people are disproportionately affected. It is unacceptable that, in Australia, we continue to discriminate against our citizens based on their sexual orientation and identity.
“AMSA recognises that marriage equality is an essential step towards health equity for all members of Australian society.
“As future doctors, we recognise that systematically discriminating against people on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender has detrimental health effects and as such we call on the Government to end marriage inequality.
“There is no evidence to suggest that defining marriage as a legal union solely between a man and a woman is beneficial to individuals and community health,” he said.
Medical students will be engaging in critical issues affecting Australia’s health at the AMSA National Convention, being held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre until Sunday 8th June. A press conference will be held at 9.15am Thursday 5th July. For details about the press conference and other media opportunities at this year’s National Convention, please visit:https://amsaorgau.wufoo.com/forms/amsa-national-convention-media-enquiries/.
Media contact
Zoe Stewart
0435 052 570