Benefits of a civil partnership

On 5 December 2005, the Civil Partnership Act (2004) came into effect in the United Kingdom. The law is a major milestone towards equality for gay and lesbian British nationals.

Civil partnership registration allows same sex couples to have their relationship legally recognised under UK law. By registering their relationship it gives them the same rights as a married couple in areas like tax, social security, inheritance and workplace benefits.

The Act also applies to British nationals living in Australia who are able to register a civil partnership, with either another British national or the citizen of another country.

Civil partners now have equal treatment under UK law in a wide range of legal matters with married couples, including:

• Tax, including inheritance tax
• Employment Benefits
• Most state and occupational pension benefits
• Income related benefits, tax credits and child support
• Duty to provide reasonable maintenance for your civil partners and any children of the family
• Ability to apply for parental responsibility for your civil partner's child
• Inheritance of a tenancy agreement
• Recognition under intestacy rules
• Access to fatal accidents compensation
• Protection from domestic violence
• Recognition for immigration and nationality purposes

The Woman and Equality Unit has published some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about civil partnerships.

Who can register?

Two people may register a civil partnership provided:

• They are of the same sex
• They are not already in a civil partnership or lawfully married
• They are not within prohibited degrees of a relationship (e.g. closely related)
• They are both aged 16 or over (and, if either of them is under 18 the consent of the appropriate person has been obtained)