Gay couples feature in upcoming ABC and SBS shows

A SAME-sex couple will feature in tonight’s episode of the ABC’s 7.30 Report in a story about international birth arrangements in light of recent news of a Downs Syndrome child born to a surrogate in Thailand from Australian parents, who was allegedly left behind while his twin was taken to Australia.

The story will focus on the growing high numbers of IVF and surrogacy arrangements between Australia and Thailand and will feature a gay couple from Melbourne who have just brought a baby girl home.

According to the story tonight, Australians who are seeking children have “flocked” to Thailand, resulting in a 500 per cent increase in Australian demand for IVF and surrogacy services. There are also reports of unwanted fertilised eggs being sold on a black market.

The story of baby Gammy and his surrogate mother Pattaramon Janbua has shocked Australia, where it is alleged that the surrogate parents rejected the Downs baby and took his twin sister home instead.

However, there are reports emerging today from the Australian parents who have claimed they never knew of Gammy’s existence to begin with.

Same-sex couples will also feature in an upcoming SBS special, Living with the Enemy: Same-Sex Marriage, that will screen in September (pictured above).

The show will see gay couple Gregory and Michael live for a week with a conservative Anglican minister, David, who is not in favour of marriage equality.

The documentary series will follow the atheist couple and the father of three as they become immersed in one another’s lives and worlds.

“Living with the Enemy confronts major issues by bringing together a provocative clash of beliefs, ideologies and personalities that will have audiences shouting at the television,” SBS Director of Television Tony Iffland said.

“It’s a series that reflects the passion and drama SBS programs are renowned for, by provoking intense public debate on topics that impact all Australians.“

Episode one of Living with the Enemy will air at 8.30pm on Wednesday, September 3 on SBS1.

(Image: Promotional photo for Living with the Enemy: Same-sex Marriage.)