Advocates have welcomed a South Australian state marriage equality bill introduced today by Greens MLC, Tammy Franks.
Ms Franks’ bill allowing same-sex couples to marry in South Australia mirrors similar legislation currently before the Tasmanian Parliament.
South Australian Liberal Party leader, Isobel Redmond, has promised a conscience vote on the bill, a position confirmed by Upper House Opposition Leader, Stephen Wade.
Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Alex Greenwich, said,
“My hope is that the federal parliament will enact marriage equality this year, but if that doesn’t happen Tammy Franks’ bill is a timely reminder that the state parliaments are free to move forward on this important issue.”
“A South Australian Liberal conscience vote also sends a strong message to the federal Coalition about the importance of MPs voting according to their individual values.”
Leading constitutional experts such as Professor George Williams have made it clear that the states and territories are able to legislate for same-sex marriage.
Isobel Redmond’s support for a conscience vote is shared by NSW Liberal Premier, Barry O’Farrell, former Howard Government Minister, Amanda Vanstone, and National Party Deputy Leader, Barnaby Joyce.
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.