In response to NSW Premier, Barry O’Farrell’s decision not to back a state Same-Sex Marriage Bill, advocates say states have a moral responsibility to act on the issue and will seek a meeting with Mr O’Farrell to put their position.
According to Mr O’Farrell, who is an in-principle supporter of same-sex marriage, the reform should occur at a national level so there is “national consistency” (click here for Mr O’Farrell’s statement).
But Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said as long as the federal government refuses to move forward on the issue the states should.
“In the absence of federal action on marriage equality, the states have a moral responsibility to ensure all loving committed same-sex couples are treated equally. This includes Mr O’Farrell and other NSW state MPs.”
“The whole point of our federal structure is that when reform is blocked at one level it can progress at another.”
“The recognition of all personal relationships has occurred first at a state level, from heterosexual marriages through de facto relationships to civil partnership, and I don’t see why same-sex marriages should be any different.”
“We will write to Mr O’Farrell seeking a meeting to put our case for state action on marriage equality.”
A Same-Sex Marriage Bill will be introduced into the NSW Upper House today. Earlier this year a NSW parliamentary committee found the NSW parliament has the power to enact a law for same-sex marriages. Advice from senior constitutional barrister, Bret Walker SC, has confirmed the proposed NSW Bill is constitutionally valid.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 31 October 2013