Marriage equality advocates have welcomed the announcement of a timetable for the introduction of state same-sex marriage legislation in South Australia, saying it shows the issue is alive and well.
South Australian Social Inclusion Minister, Ian Hunter, has said legislation will be introduced early next year and he expects the South Australian law to be the first tested in the High Court.
Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Rodney Croome, said,
“Marriage equality supporters across the country will be heartened by South Australia’s commitment on this issue.”
“Opponents of marriage equality who constantly predict the death of the issue are utterly out of the touch with the majority of Australians who want to to see their gay and lesbian friends and family members treated equally under the law.”
Mr Hunter made his announcement following the narrow defeat of a same-sex bill in the Tasmanian Upper House on Thursday night by eight votes to six.
“The fact marriage equality came so close to being passed in Tasmania has given supporters of reform immense encouragement”, Mr Croome said.
A report on the S.A. timetable for reform can be found here: http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/south-australia-takes-centre-stage-in-gay-marriage-debate/story-fn59niix-1226483789340
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.