A motion from Greens Senator, Sarah Hanson-Young, calling for a free vote today passed the Senate where opposition parties hold a majority. The government voted against.
With the Labor Party allowing a free vote, passing marriage equality is almost impossible with a Liberal/National free vote as well.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“Tony Abbott has been sent a direct message by the Senate to allow a free vote so marriage equality can move forward.”
“Before the election he promised the Liberal/National party room would be able to debate a marriage equality free vote and it’s high time he fulfilled that promise.”
“It borders on the absurd that we have the Liberal and National parties – parties that say they are champions of individual freedom – not allowing a free vote and not even supporting a motion calling for one.”
Mr Croome said it is deeply embarrassing to many Australians that same-sex marriages are allowed in Alabama but not Australia.
“When you’re human rights record is worse than Alabama’s you know you’re in trouble.”
“If, as seems likely, Ireland endorses marriage equality in a referendum in May, Australia will be the only developed, English-speaking country without the reform.”
A copy of Senator Hanson-Young’s motion is included below.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
The motion, as passed by the Senate, read;
Senator Hanson-Young moves;
– That the Senate agrees that all members of Parliament and senators should be granted a conscience vote on the issue of equal marriage in Australia.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 18 March 2015