Advocates say Malcolm Turnbull is reflecting growing support for marriage equality in Coalition ranks after his comments today in favour of the reform.
Mr Turnbull said he believes there is strong support for a conscience vote in Coalition ranks and that Australia is seen as falling behind comparable countries.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“Mr Turnbull is reflecting growing support in the Coalition, not just for a conscience vote but for the principle of marriage equality”, Mr Croome said.
“An increasing number of Australians feel embarrassed by the fact that marriage equality has moved forward in countries that are our closest friends and allies, including New Zealand, the UK, the US and Canada.”
“It’s impossible to be certain how parliament would vote if there was a cross-party conscience vote on marriage equality, but my best guess is it would be quite close.”
Mr Croome welcomed Deputy Labor leader, Tanya Plibersek, reaching across the party divide and calling on Mr Turnbull to co-sponsor a marriage equality bill.
“No single party can achieve marriage equality so it is vital that a marriage equality bill has cross-party cosponsorship if it is to succeed.”
“We would like to see the bill cosponsored by members of all parties and by independents so maximise its chances.”
Mr Croome said Thursday’s High Court decision, plus Wednesday’s announcement of a cross-party group, means the last week has been the biggest for marriage equality this year.
1,126,872 people accessed our website in last seven days indicating this week has been the biggest for marriage equality in the last twelve months.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Photo: Andrew Meares
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 15 December 2013