From 1 January 2004 Civil Union Bill is in force in Tasmania. It gives virtual equality to a wide range of different relationships including same-sex relationships and institutes a relationships registry. It also includes step-parent adoption for same-sex couples, and institutes Australia's first ever registry for significant personal relationships including same sex relationships.

Other states subsequently legalized domestic partnerships, giving cohabiting same sex couples the same rights as cohabiting male/female couples. Australian Capital Territory legalized this in 1994, New South Wales in 1999, Queensland in 1999, Victoria in 2001, Western Australia in 2002, and Northern Territory in 2003. Other states, including South Australia and the Northern Territory, are also considering the recognition of civil unions as well.

Some rights have been granted at a national level since 1995. These include employment benefits, immigration rights, and certain rights within the Australian Army, etc.