Brethren appeal VCAT decision

The Christian Brethren owned Christian Youth Camps Ltd (CYC) will appeal a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) decision that found it had discriminated against WayOut — a rural youth group for same-sex attracted young people —  in refusing them accommodation in 2007.

The CYC’s legal team lodged paperwork on the final day of the 28-day appeal period.
It’s understood that although documents indicating CYC would appeal were lodged, a crucial Notice of Appeal document was not sent.

WayOut is aiming to have the CYC’s appeal struck out on account of the lack of required documentation.
The Court of Appeal will hear WayOut’s strike out application on Monday, December 13.

If the appeal is not struck out, February 2, has been set aside for the appeal hearing.

In October this year WayOut won its VCAT discrimination case against CYC and were awarded $5000 compensation.
In related news, barrister Debbie Mortimer acting on behalf of WayOut has been shortlisted for an Australian Human Rights Commission medal for her overall work in the area of human rights.