McClelland, who is Barton MP, said that more than 100 areas of law would be reformed to grant gay and lesbian partners equal rights under Commonwealth law.

The reforms have attracted criticism from some members of the gay community because they will not alter marriage laws or sanction same-sex unions

But they will give gay couples the same rights as de facto heterosexual couples in areas including tax, superannuation, social security, health, aged care, veterans' entitlements, workers' compensation and employment entitlements.

"While we support the system of registration of same-sex relationships, we don't support an arrangement that mimics marriage," Mr McClelland said.

"Importantly, the reforms will ensure children are not disadvantaged because of the structure of their family.

"The reforms will make a practical difference to the everyday lives of a group of our fellow Australians who have suffered discrimination under Commonwealth laws for far too long."

Mr McClelland said legislation would be introduced when parliament resumed for winter sittings in June, with the changes expected to be implemented by mid-2009.

He said budgetary implications of the measures would be announced in a couple of weeks.

While most reforms become effective soon after the passing of legislation, reforms will be phased-in in areas including social security and tax.

The reforms come in response to a report by Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission which revealed discrimination in financial and work-related legislation and an audit of Commonwealth laws by the Federal Government.

Human Rights commissioner Graeme Innes said the changes would send a clear message to Australian society that same sex couples should be treated in the same way as opposite sex couples in every area of life.

"It is a strong recognition the same status," Mr Innes said.

He said changes would affect employed co-parents who would now be entitled to carers leave to support mothers in the same way that fathers do now.

"Unlike heterosexual couples, the assets test for the purpose of the aged-care accommodation payment included the family home, had pushed gay couples over the level for exemption. They will now have the same rights."

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