Recent legislative reforms have made it easier for LGBTIQA+ people to do a variety of things. This page contains links to information and forms about common queries.
Changing your name or gender marker on legal documents
Transgender and gender diverse people can change their name and gender marker on legal documents.
Birth certificate
You can change your gender marker and name at the same time using the “Change of sex or gender identity” form.
Driver’s license
Registering a relationship or marriage
It is legal for same-gender couples to marry in Australia. You can register your relationship, even if you don’t want to marry.
Registering a relationship can make some things easier compared to a de facto relationship. Refer to the Legal Services Commission of SA's information about registered vs de facto relationships.
Removing historic homosexual convictions
Homosexuality was illegal in South Australia until 1975. Before 1975, it was possible for people to be charged with crimes relating to homosexual activity. These criminal convictions can now be removed from a person’s criminal record, which is known as having the conviction spent.
SA.gov.au website has more information about how to have a historic homosexual conviction spent (removed).
Adoption, foster care and surrogacy
For LGBTIQA+ people wanting to start a family, there are many options available. Follow these links for:
LGBTIQA+ couples also have the right to access assisted reproductive therapies (for example IVF), and couples of any gender can have both of their names registered on the birth certificate.
LGBTIQA+ inclusion in schools
The Department for Education is committed to a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment for every child and young people. Their policies and procedures to support LGBTIQA+ students can be found on the Department for Educations Gender diverse, intersex and sexually diverse children and young people page.
Protection from discrimination
There are state and federal laws that protect LGBTIQA+ people from discrimination. The main laws are:
These laws protect LGBTIQA+ people from being discriminated against in various settings, such as workplaces, schools, and when accessing health or community services.
If you experience discrimination, you can make a complaint and might be able to take other types of action. Information about where you can make a complaint about discrimination can be found on the Equal Opportunity Commission’s website.