Lyle Shelton - Christian Commentator and Politician Threatened with Discrimination Claims

Lyle Shelton is a prominent Christian commentator and politician who had a case brought against him by two drag queens alleging vilification under Queensland’s anti-discrimination laws.

Lyle had criticised a “drag queen story time” event for children at a public Brisbane library, stating in his blog in 2020 that drag queens were not good role models for children.

HRLA, together with esteemed barristers Tony Morris KC and Simon Fisher, defended Lyle in the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

In 2023, QCAT dismissed the complaint, determining that Lyle’s comments “did not, and do not amount to vilification”.

While Lyle’s legal team defended Lyle on a largely pro bono basis, the two drag queens were supported by the government funded LGBTI Legal Service throughout the three-year case.

At the time of going to print, the drag queens had appealed the decision.