The ACT Government says same-sex couples will be able to get married in Canberra before the end of the year, with the introduction today of the Marriage Equality Bill into the Legislative Assembly.

There was a standing ovation from the public gallery as the bill was formally introduced.
standing ovationxlrgThere was applause and a standing ovation from the public gallery in response to the introduction of the ACT’s bill to legalise same sex marriage.

If successful, the ACT will become the first Australian jurisdiction to legalise same sex marriage.

The bill is expected to pass during next month’s sittings with the support of Greens Minister Shane Rattenbury and all eight Labor MLA’s.

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher says same sex couples will be able to marry in the ACT well before the end of the year.

“We went to the election seeking to be the most LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, intersex) friendly community in Australia,” she said.

“This I think positions us well.”

It is not the first time the ACT has tried to legislate for marriage equality, with the Civil Unions Bill quashed by the Howard government in 2006.

But after legislative changes, it will now be much harder for the Federal Government to overturn the law because it will need a vote in both houses of Parliament.

It is highly likely the bill will be challenged in the High Court.

Ms Gallagher says she is aware some are opposed to the bill.

“It comes with risks about potential challenges to the legislation but again we don’t believe that should stop us pursuing a commitment we have made.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has asked for legal advice on the territory’s bill to legalise same sex marriage.

Mr Abbott wants to see the legal details.

“The ACT is entitled to do what it can within the law,” he said.

“As you know under the constitution the Commonwealth has responsibility for marriage and the Attorney-General will be seeking advice on precisely how far the ACT can go on this.”

Photo: ABC News
Author: Lisa Mosley
Publication: ABC News
Date: 19 September 2013