Australia’s marriage equality advocates have hailed the historic vote in the Tasmanian lower house, setting the course for Tasmania to become the first place in Australia to allow same-sex couples to marry.
Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Crome, said,
“This is a historic day for Tasmania as we advance a reform that will strengthen relationships and families, foster a more inclusive society, and banish Tasmania’s former reputation for homophobia forever.”
“Today we saw some exceptionally inspiring and moving contributions from MPs who have been on a personal journey towards supporting marriage equality.”
Australian Marriage Equality national convened, Alex Greenwich, said,
“The Tasmanian Lower House today became the first in Australia to pass a marriage equality law making Tasmania a beacon of hope for same-sex couples and their families across Australia.”
“The message the Tasmanian Lower House sends to our federal MPs is that if they can’t open their hearts and work together to progress reform it will instead occur state-by-state and territory-by-territory.”
The Same-Sex Marriage Bill 2012 passed with the support of Labor and Green parties. The Liberal Opposition opposed the reform.
The Bill will now head to the States Upper house, where advocates are confident it will be debated in a mature and thoughtful manner.
Mr Croome said,
“The Tasmanian Upper House has a reputation of carefully considering important reforms such as this one, and we look forward to an open, honest, and respectful debate.”
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335 or Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.