Focus is now on Coalition Free Vote.
Commencement of debate is June 18, 2015.
Vote on The Bill is November 12, 2015.
Marriage equality in Australia is a step closer to becoming a reality after Senators Sarah Hanson-Young and Janet Rice announced debate on their Marriage Equality bill is now scheduled for June 18, with a vote planned for November 12, 2015.
Advocates welcomed the announcement as a clear signal that Australia had gained momentum on the issue after the resounding success of Ireland’s recent referendum.
Deputy Director of Australian Marriage Equality, Ivan Hinton-Teoh, said,
“The Greens bill will be a new opportunity for the growing number of marriage equality supporters in the Coalition to move the party forward to reflect the community’s views which, undeniably, includes strong support.”
“Ireland, with the support of it’s strong Catholic population, voted for marriage equality at a rate of two to one.”
“It was also the latest confirmation that support for reform is shared broadly in the community, regardless of whether you’re young or old, Catholic or Anglican, male or female, conservative or progressive.”
The Coalition can no longer avoid having the party room discussion to allow it’s members to support marriage equality now that a bill is scheduled for debate and a vote.
Hinton-Teoh said,
“The path forward, at this point, is for all members of parliament to be able to vote freely on this issue. The Coalition party room must resolve that it’s members can reflect the enormous support that exists in the community.”
“The Prime Minister has recognised the strong support for reform in the community and even his own family. It is time that Coalition members are free to reflect the full strength of support that exists on this issue.”
For further comment:
Ivan Hinton-Teoh on 0419 124 826
For comment about the Irish YesEquality campaign in Australia:
Colm O’Callaghan 0431 742 560
Author: Ivan Hinton-Teoh
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 26 May 2015