Contrary to several news reports, Josh Frydenberg has not said he believes same-sex couples should be allowed to marry. This can be confirmed with his office. He has said he supports a free vote, believes attitudes are changing in parliament, and has been moved by the personal stories of constituents who are in same-sex relationships. Apologies for the misleading media release below. On behalf of AME, my response to Mr Frydenberg’s comments is,
“I welcome Josh Frydenberg’s acknowledgement that Australians are comfortable with marriage equality and that an increasing number of Liberal MPs support it.”
“It is an affront to these MPs, their constituents and Liberal Party values to delay the granting of a free vote any longer.”
“Mr Frydenberg’s revelation that he has been moved by meeting same-sex couples from his electorate is a reminder of the power of personal stories to change hearts and minds.”
Rodney Croome
National Director
Australian Marriage Equality
0409 010 668
AUSTRALIAN MARRIAGE EQUALITY
Media Release
Thursday March 26th 2015
PRAISE FOR FRYDENBERG PRO-MARRIAGE EQUALITY STAND
Advocates have praised Assistant Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, for revealing his switch to supporting marriage equality saying it will add weight to the push for a free vote and encourage supporters to lobby local MPs.
Mr Frydenberg said today he believes marriage equality “will become part of the Australian way of life”, adding what changed his mind were personal stories from his constituents.
Australian Marriage equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“We warmly welcome Mr Frydenberg’s support for marriage equality and for his openness to the personal stories of his constituents.”
“Mr Frydenberg’s shift on marriage equality is part of a wider shift on the issue in the Liberal Party with a significant number of other MPs indicating to us they are ready to vote for the reform.”
“It is an affront to these MPs, their constituents and Liberal Party values to delay the granting of a free vote any longer.”
Mr Croome said Mr Frydenberg’s revelation that constituents’ personal stories changed his mind will encourage more supporters of reform to tell their stories.
“In the wake of Mr Frydenberg’s revelation I hope ot see more marriage equality supporters visiting their local MP, or at the least sending a message to their federal representatives through our #EqualityCalling hotline on 1300 663 679.”
For a news report, click here.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.