Today, Wednesday 1 July, marks the first day that same-sex couples are recognised by the Australian Government for social security and family assistance purposes.
"These couples will now be required to advise Centrelink of their relationship status and some customers may be shifted from the single to the partnered rate of payment," advises News.com.au.
The changes are the result of the Same-Sex Relationships (Equal Treatment in Commonwealth Laws — General Law Reform) Act 2008 coming into law.
The New South Wales Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby says its delighted to see "the tremendous benefits these reforms deliver for same-sex couples in Australia.
"We have known for years that the broader community supports equality for same-sex couples," the Lobby told the Sydney Star Observer. "It is great to see the federal Government finally catch up and recognise that all love is truly equal."
