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In Australia, transgender and intersex Victorians will be able to change the sex on their birth certificate for the first time ever under a new bill.

The Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Amendment Bill 2016 would remove the need for applicants to undergo sex reassignment surgery before being able to apply for a new birth certificate.

The bill will also enable parents to apply for their child’s gender to be changed on their birth certificate with the child’s consent.

Couples will also no longer be forced to divorce if one partner wishes to change the sex recorded on his or her official documents.

While the Federal Marriage Act does not allow same-sex marriage, it does not stipulate that sex cannot be changed after the marriage.

Minister for Equality Martin Foley said: “In making this important change, we’re not only delivering on our commitment, but removing another barrier for trans, gender diverse and intersex Victorians.

“This shows once again that in Victoria, equality is not negotiable.”

Others were quick to offer their support via social media.

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Transgender Victoria’s executive director Sally Goldner told Daily Mail Australia they were very welcoming of the decision.

“It’s got huge practical and other benefits for us such as making it easier for say, young transgender people, who I know have not been able to go for holiday jobs because they have a birth certificate that doesn’t match,” Ms Goldner said.

“It also makes it easier to get working with children checks, passports, 100 points for the banks as well.”

Ms Goldner said transgender people have been campaigning for the right to change their birth certificates as far back as 30 years ago.

“The changes will also benefit family members of minors as it’s easier for them to assist children in the journey,” she said.

 

 

 

 

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