Marriage equality advocates have welcomed the re-election of Kerry Finch to the Tasmanian Upper House after a campaign which saw marriage equality emerge as a key issue.

Mr Finch, an independent who twice voted for a state same-sex marriage law, won the suburban and rural Tamar Valley seat of Rosevears with over 60% of the vote, defeating Liberal candidate, Don Morris, a strong opponent of the reform.

Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,

“Mr Finch’s re-election shows voters respect and reward politicians who stand up for tolerance and equality.”

“Polls show over 60% of Tasmanians support majority equality and that is reflected in Mr Finch’s strong result.”

“The message to the State Government is that Tasmanians want their state to lead the way on marriage equality, should the Federal Government fail to act.”

“The message to politicians around the nation is that suburban and rural voters back marriage equality as much as their city counterparts.”

The Rosevears election was more politicised than is common for Tasmanian Upper House elections with Mr Finch accusing Mr Morris of using smear tactics and with Mr Morris using robocalls.

Votes are still being counted in the Upper House seat of Huon where marriage equality was less of a point of difference between candidates.

For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.

Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 4 May 2014