Australia’s marriage equality advocates have welcomed the passage of New Zealand’s marriage equality bill through its first reading stage, but say Australia risks falling behind comparable countries unless it legislates for marriage equality at home.
New Zealand MPs were granted a conscience vote on Labour MP Louisa Wall’s bill, which passed by 80 votes to 40 last night before a packed public gallery at Parliament. (Report here)
Alex Greenwich, national convener of Australian Marriage Equality, said New Zealand’s progress on marriage reform would lead to “soul-searching” among many Australians:
“Australia should be leading our region in valuing the love and commitment same-sex couples share, but instead we find ourselves falling behind places like New Zealand.”
“The 64% of Australians who support marriage equality will be embarrassed that our politicians are delaying a reform that will benefit families and the national economy.”
A recent Galaxy poll found support for marriage equality at an all-time high of 64%. (Report here)
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.