A independent “Teal” MP has demanded the NSW government invest in a special legal service for homosexuals, sparking backlash from voters in her electorate.
Jacqui Scruby, the member for Pittwater on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, urged Premier Chris Minns to direct funding towards the initiative because “the LGBTQIA+ Community have been formally recognised as a priority population” on social media on Friday.
“In NSW we have yet to see an investment in legal services for the LGBTQIA+ Community. This means NSW is now lagging behind our neighbours in Victoria and Queensland, which have recently seen increased investment for their LGBTQIA+ Legal services,” she wrote.
“The ICLC provides the LGBTQIA+ Legal Service for residents in NSW, however it receives no specific funding to deliver these services outside of its ‘catchment’ area of Sydney’s Inner and Eastern Suburbs. Meaning, our LGBTQIA community of Pittwater would not be receiving the support they deserve.
“This is not good enough. We request the Premier and Attorney General show their support for the LGBTIQA+ community and invest in the NSW LGBTQIA+ legal service.”
But many of Ms Scruby’s constituents objected to the proposal, with some pointing out Australians were struggling with cost of living and saying the funding could be better allocated elsewhere, while others asked why homosexuals deserved their own legal service.
“Shouldn’t all citizens have equal access to legal services?” asked one Northern Beaches local.
“Are you serious?! Why in today’s society do the LGBTQ community need special treatment. Also, how about governments get back to schools, roads, hospitals, defence, waste etc rather than splurging on dumb shit like this. I’m tired of seeing my tax money pissed up the wall!” said another.
“Has the world gone mad? How is this even a priority. I actually think everyone just wants to be treated with respect. You are doing a disservice singling out a group just based on their sexual orientation,” said a third.
Another suggested Ms Scruby might be better off joining Labor or the Greens.
“If you’re independent, your job is Pittwater, not crusades. Who did you consult about council increases – the biggest issue in the area? I’ve written about e-bikes and heard nothing. I’ve even spoken to your staff, and it looks like there’s little experience in the role,” he wrote.
“Maybe focus on learning the ropes as our local MP and actually delivering for the community before taking on issues that aren’t yours. Get your ‘L plates’ first.”
Ms Scruby became the first teal MP elected to NSW Parliament after winning a by-election with the backing of left-wing political funding outfit Climate 200.
Her seat was previously held by Liberal MP Rory Amon, who resigned after being charged with child sex offences. Amon has pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting a 13-year-old boy and is awaiting trial.
Header image: Jacqui Scruby (Instagram).
