Former Australian Medical Association president Kerryn Phelps says it is unconscionable for politicians to block the legal recognition of same-sex marriages.
Dr Phelps also criticised an exemption for religious groups in proposed anti-discrimination laws. The exemption would effectively allow church agencies to continue refuse to employ people based on their sexual orientation.
Dr Phelps praised US President Barack Obama for discussing gay rights during his inauguration speech last week and said it was inevitable same-sex marriage would be legalised in Australia.
“It’s still inevitable it’s just a matter of time,” Dr Phelps said. “I think Obama put our leaders to shame the other day. And I think part of our entire society’s wellness is to eliminate discrimination in all forms.
