Advocates have hailed a marriage equality bill to be introduced tomorrow by Labor backbencher, Stephen Jones as historic.
Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Alex Greenwich, said,
“Stephen Jones’ bill is a milestone on the road to equality because it is the first to be introduced by a government member and a member of a major party.”
“The Jones bill demonstrates the immense momentum behind reform. Three months ago the Labor Party was officially opposed to reform and now we have a Labor member leading the way towards equality.”
Mr Greenwich also welcomed a motion from Tasmanian independent, Andrew Wilkie, to be debated tomorrow, which calls on parliament to affirm churches will be free to refuse to marry same-sex partners in the event same-sex marriage is allowed.
“We respect the freedom of churches not to solemnise same-sex marriages and we welcome the fact that this freedom is clearly spelt out in Mr Wilkie’s motion and in Mr Jones’ bill.”
“We call on all parties to support Mr Wilkie’s motion and thereby send a message to people of faith they have nothing to fear from marriage equality.”
Andrew Wilkie and Greens MP, Adam Bandt, have co-sponsored a marriage equality bill which they have called on Labor and Coalition MPs to also support.
“We call on Mr Jones, Mr Bandt and Mr Wilkie to submit their bills to the current Senate inquiry into marriage equality so the best possible legislation can be developed and put forward”, Mr Greenwich said.
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.