Despite the strong support for marriage equality amongst ALP supporters and leadership, a motion in support for Marriage Equality failed to be voted on at the NSW Labor Conference. Instead the issue will be referred to the National Conference in December.
Key supporters of reform used the opportunity to re-affirm their support and declare their voting intention at the National Conference. Amongst them was Paul Howes (AWU), who called for a respectful and open debate at the National Conference, where he will vote in favour of marriage equality. While Federal Transport Minister, Anthony Albanese, officially joined the chorus of support stating “I support marriage equality. I will vote for marriage equality”.
Others speaking in favour of marriage equality and declaring their voting intention for National Conference include NSW State Secretary Sam Dastyari and Federal Minister for Social Inclusion Tanya Plibersek.
Australian Marriage Equality National Convener, Alex Greenwich, said he hopes that those who support equality will turn this setback into a call for action ahead of the national conference:
“We know a clear majority of ALP voters, State conferences, and State Leaders support reform, but this NSW setback proves the battle is far from over”
Mr Greenwich said every Australian who supports equality has a role to play in making history and delivering an outcome 75% of Australians expect:
“It is vital that supporters of equality continue to express their views to their MPs and Senators. To deliver the outcome we all believe in, we must email, phone, and meet with our parliamentarians as a matter of urgency”
Supporters of reform have until mid August to share their views with MPs at which time MPs will report back to parliament on their electorates’ views on the issue.
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.