Data reveals LGBT+ challenges but not total picture
New data from Stats NZ suggests it pays to be gay, however a rainbow community leader questions how safe LGBT+ Kiwis feel to complete surveys.
Stats NZ’S latest annual Household Economic Survey was the second time respondents were asked about their sexual orientation and gender identity. According to the data, published on Wednesday, 33.9% of LGBT+ people held a bachelor qualification or higher, 6.2% more than the NON-LGBT+ population.
Members of the rainbow community earned $100 more after tax annually than the NON-LGBT+ population, when adjusted for age. However, gender diverse people earned $10,400 less annually.
Sidney Wong, co-chairperson of Christchurch rainbow group Qtopia and chairperson of the Ethnic Rainbow Alliance, said having LGBT+ data meant they could track changes and challenges facing the community over time.
‘‘It also shows the changing face of our rainbow community. For example, there was a decrease in Asian data.’’
He said it was a timely reminder of the need for government agencies to work alongside local rainbow communities ahead of next year’s census, ‘‘so we can ensure they are collecting data in a safe way’’.
‘‘It is scary, not just to come out to yourself and your family but the government too,’’ Wong said. ‘‘It could mean the data is not as reflective of our communities as it should be.’’
Having that data was important, he said, because it showed other LGBT+ people – especially those who were also ethnic minorities – that they were not invisible and any negative outcomes experienced by particular groups could be addressed.
‘‘When you see data about yourself, you know you exist . . . you are not on your own.’’
The upcoming census will be the first time New Zealanders are asked about their sexual and gender identity. People’s sex will not be asked for, as this information is collected at birth.
Jason Attewell, Stats NZ social and population insights general manager, told Stuff last year sexual identity questions would be asked only of people aged 15 or older. The form could be completed privately online.
One person who spoke to Stuff anonymously admitted they would likely lie when asked about their sexuality. They were still in the process of accepting their asexuality.