Marriage equality advocates have welcomed the formation of a multi-partisan marriage equality campaign in NSW. Labor, Liberal, Nationals, Greens and Independent MPs will all join forces to help progress state based same-sex marriage laws (full details here and here)
Australian Marriage Equality, National Convener, Alex Greenwich said:
“This strong political cooperation and determination will help deliver equality to NSW, the state with more same-sex couples than any other”
“We hope this move also sends a message to our federal parliamentarians, that reform is best achieved when all parties work together.”
Mr Greenwich said same-sex couples would welcome the moves by the various states, especially if federal parliament fails to deliver reform:
“Should the federal parliament fail the hopes of a clear majority of Australians, same-sex couples will be comforted that reform will happen state by state”
Tasmania, South Australia, NSW, ACT, Victoria and Western Australia all progressing with legislation.
Mr Greenwich called on Tony Abbott to follow Barry O’Farrell’s lead and grant a free vote on the reform:
“Premier O’Farrell respects the Liberal tradition of granting free votes on such issues. it’s time Tony Abbott allowed his federal Liberal members the opportunity to join the majority of Australians and support a reform that will strengthen couples, families and communities”
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335