Advocates say a plebiscite on marriage equality would unnecessarily delay a reform Australians want dealt with now.
It has been reported that the Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, is canvassing with his colleagues the idea of a marriage equality plebiscite at or after the next election.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“A plebiscite would delay marriage equality until at least 2017, and possibly much longer given the result would not be binding, when we know it can be achieved this year through parliament.”
“Australians are tired of debating marriage equality, and of other countries moving ahead of us, and want it enacted as soon as possible.”
“A plebiscite would be seen as the Prime Minister spending millions to deny parliament the right to vote because he knows marriage equality could pass if there is a Coalition free vote.”
The last time Australia had a plebiscite was in 1977 on the question of the national anthem. The plebiscite outcome then took seven years to implement.
“A plebiscite outcome would not be binding so even when Australia voted for marriage equality the issue would still return to parliament and face the same set of opponents it does now.”
“We are also concerned about the poor rules governing plebiscites including the fact the government can set the question without parliament’s approval, as well as how potentially divisive and polarising a plebiscite campaign could be.”
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 28 July 2015