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1986 in LGBT Rights

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In 1986, there were 6 recorded legal changes made affecting LGBT people. In the previous year, there were 5 changes made and 13 in the following year. A total of 171 legal changes were made in the 1980s.

  • December 6
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act of 1986 prevents discriminatory activities, however, the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 provides exemptions for religious institutions.
  • November 11
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (imprisonment as punishment).
    Anal intercourse between two consenting male adults is punishable by twenty-five (25) years imprisonment. Anal intercourse committed by a minor is punishable by five (5) years imprisonment. Serious indecency between two adults of the same sex is punishable by five years imprisonment. ("An act of “serious indecency” is an act, other than sexual intercourse (whether natural or unnatural), by a person involving the use of the genital organ for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire.")
  • August 8
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Equal age of consent since homosexual (male-and-male) activity was legalised with the commencement of the Homosexual Law Reform Act on 8 August 1986.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Legalised with the commencement of the Homosexual Law Reform Act 1986, introduced as a bill by former member of Parliament Fran Wilde.
  • May 27
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
  • April 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Under Federal law. Almost Nationwide.