Tas gay crime records to be wiped

The Tasmanian government will make a formal apology in parliament next year to people who have previously been criminally convicted for having gay sex.

Up until 1997 when the state changed its laws, consensual sex between men was illegal, and the government plans to introduce legislation in 2016 to have all such convictions wiped.

"A formal apology to those affected, including families and loved ones of those who are deceased, will be made when the legislation is introduced in the house," Attorney-General Vanessa Goodwin said on Thursday.