Advocates have welcomed a move by the Greens to have marriage equality voted on before the federal election, and have called for the Bill to be co-sponsored by Labor and Coalition MPs.
Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Rodney Croome, said,
“With Australian polls showing an increase in support since New Zealand achieved marriage equality, I am hopeful an increased number of MPs will do the right thing and throw their weight behind reform.”
“It is now in the hands of Tony Abbott to allow a conscience vote, and Julia Gillard to show leadership, but if they don’t I believe the vote will still show support is rising and there’s unstoppable momentum behind reform.”
“The vote will also give declared supporters of reform a final opportunity to show voters they stand for fairness and family.”
Mr Croome called on Labor and Coalition MPs who support marriage equality to co-sponsor the Bill.
“In New Zealand, MPs in support of equality worked across party lines to achieve reform and I’d like see the co-operative New Zealand model adopted here too.”
The Greens have proposed June 6th as the date for a House of Representatives vote on a marriage equality bill sponsored by Green MP, Adam Bandt, and Tasmanian independent, Andrew Wilkie.
Earlier this week an Essential Research poll found support in Australia has increased from 54% to 58%, with a majority of Coalition voters now in favour, since the achievement of marriage equality in New Zealand. Galaxy research has previously shown support is as high as 64%. For poll results, click here
Last year a House of Representatives inquiry into marriage equality received an unprecedented 177,663 submissions in favour, which was 64% of the total.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Publication date: May 9 2013