Chief Petty Officer Stuart O'Brien & Chris Matterson

Chief Petty Officer Stuart O’Brien is known to most Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as their voice. For over eight years he has continued to ensure the concerns of the LGBT members of the ADF, both military and civilian have been heard. During this time he wrote many papers with a goal to secure recognition for same-sex couples within the ADF and established DEFGLIS (Defence Gay & Lesbian Information Service).

Stuart joined the Royal Australian Navy just over 20 years not knowing how his passion and drive would affect the lives of so many LGBT members of the ADF. He has represented Australia on numerous overseas operational deployments, and has had the honour of being invited to speak at various forums in the USA on ‘Homosexuals in the Military’, where gays are still banned from serving.

Stuart is thankful that he has a caring and supportive partner, Chris Matterson who has stood by him through his journey for equality and who is photographed with him. Chris served several years in the Royal Australian Navy and the last few years as a Public Servant with the Department of Defence. Seeing the importance of ensuring the voice of fellow gay, lesbian and bisexual servicemen and women was heard, has supported and encouraged Stuart in the fight for the recognition of same sex couples in the Defence Force.

Why have you chosen to represent this same-sex law reform campaign?

Stuart: I’ve served over 20 years in the Royal Australian Navy and seen many changes for Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual men and women of the Australian Defence Force. I got involved as these law reforms continue to show how far Australia has come and how valued our diverse community is.

Chris: Early on in our relationship we noted that we were disadvantaged in housing and other entitlements because of the lack of coverage for same-sex domestic relationships in Government policy. I supported Stuart in seeking change to the policy and continue to support him implementing the Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service (DEFGLIS) for all Defence personnel.

What sorts of same-sex discrimination have you as / anyone you know experienced?

Stuart: In the Australian Defence Force, the ban against Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual personnel was lifted in 1992. It took until 2005 for same-sex couples to be recognised so that Defence members could be extended housing benefits, relocation and separation allowances that previously only married or opposite-sex de facto couples were entitled.

Chris: I’ve heard stories of other people being discriminated against but I have been quite fortunate (touch-wood) not to have experienced any direct from of discrimination. Thankfully, society is becoming more inclusive and less discriminatory.

How do you think these reforms will make a difference to your life, or to the lives of those close to you?

Stuart: These reforms allow me to serve my country knowing that should anything ever happen to me; my partner will be looked after. It’s a peace of mind.

Chris: With rose-coloured glasses on, I hope that one day there will be 100% acceptance of homosexuals and other minority groups across all areas of society. These reforms will work towards that acceptance.

Why do you think people should wear these 85 law reforms with pride?

Stuart: It reminds us all that things have not always been this good; that prior to 1992 in the Defence Force, you had to hide who you were.

Chris: It’s 85 reasons to be happy and we are lucky number 13.

Why do you think this is a huge step forward for Australia?

Stuart: From a professional stand point, I see Australia leading the way for their military members in the area of diversity. We value all of our people and by embracing their diversity, it enhances our capability by allowing them to get on with the job knowing their loved ones are cared for.

What do you like about your T-Shirt design?

Stuart: Love and Honour was the first thing that entered our minds. The Love Hearts in the form of Dog-Tags really cemented in my mind the love for my partner and for my country that I serve. Being in the Navy, knowing that the wider Defence Force Community will look after my partner when I am away doing my duty or worst if something was to happen to me, is so reassuring.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Stuart: Within the Australian Defence Force, I see the support given to all of our people is vital; it allows us to get on with the jobs. We all discover our selves at different stages of our lives, and knowing that our Defence Force has the recourses and services to support us through these times, makes life so much easier. I must say I am very proud to call myself an Australian and a member of our Defence Forces.