Australia and APCOM celebrate Thailand’s
first anniversary of marriage equality
11 February 2026
The Australian Embassy Thailand and APCOM co-hosted a reception at the Australian Ambassador’s Residence on 10 February 2026 to celebrate Thailand’s first anniversary of marriage equality.
More than 100 guests attended the event, which included LGBTQIA+ community leaders, civil society advocates, government officials, diplomats, and private sector allies.
Australian Ambassador to Thailand, Dr Angela Macdonald PSM, said it was a significant milestone for love, equality and human rights.
“One year on, Thailand’s Marriage Equality Act stands as a testament to the Thai government and its people’s commitment to equality and fairness for its citizens. Australia remains committed to advocating for the equality of LGBTQIA+ communities, including through our partnership with APCOM.”
Executive Director of APCOM, a non-profit organisation working across Asia and the Pacific region on health, rights and wellbeing, Midnight Poonkasetwattana, reflected on the journey.
“As we mark this momentous one year of Marriage Equality in Thailand, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, we are reminded that progress is possible when courage, political will, and relentless community advocacy come together. This milestone affirms the dignity of LGBTQI+ people and strengthens Thailand’s role as a growing regional and global leader on equality. Together with partners like Australia, APCOM remains committed to advancing inclusion and human rights across our region.”
Guests reflected on a year of historic change and shared how Thailand’s law has begun to reshape lives, families, and societal attitudes. The anniversary was celebrated not as a destination, but as a powerful catalyst for further advancement in human rights.
The event underscored the decade-long partnership between Australia and APCOM. Australia is proud to support APCOM through the Australian Government’s Equality Collaboration, which supports LGBTQIA+ groups in Southeast Asia and the Pacific to address social stigma and legal discrimination.
Click here for Thai version
