New relationship laws hailed as 'best in the world' (Gay rights-Tasmania)

[rooboy]

Gay groups are describing Tasmania's new relationships legislation as some of the best in the world.

The relationships legislation passed Tasmania's Upper House yesterday afternoon with the support of three Independents - Kerry Finch, Sue Smith and Greg Hall.

In return for their support, the Government agreed to scrap a clause allowing automatic parenthood to partners of lesbians who have children through assisted reproductive technology.

The bill allows homosexuals to adopt the biological child of their partner.

But Christian groups fear the legislation has set a dangerous precedent.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights group spokesman Rodney Croome admits he is disappointed the legislation did not pass in its entirety.

But Mr Croome believes Tasmanians should nonetheless be proud of the legislation.

"This legislation will be the most progressive law on relationships passed in Australia in the last 30 years and one of the most progressive pieces of relationship legislation in the world," Mr Croome said.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/s934582.htm