Australian Marriage Equality (AME) today welcomed the Federal Opposition’s announcement of a new role of Shadow Assistant Minister for Equality in the new Parliament.
“We welcome the appointment of Terri Butler who has been appointed in the new role of Shadow Assistant Minister for Equality”, Australian Marriage Equality National Spokesperson, Shirleene Robinson said.
“The newly appointed Assistant Minister Terri Butler has been a strong supporter of marriage equality having co-sponsored a cross party marriage Bill from Labor, Liberals, Greens and Independents in the last parliament.
“For more than a decade, Australian Marriage Equality has been working to deliver marriage equality for every Australian and the appointment of a Shadow Minister for Equality reflects how our parliamentarians are committed to supporting equality for all.
“Australian Marriage Equality is committed to achieving marriage equality in this parliament. We have more supporters of marriage equality than ever before with true champions of reform across every political party.
“It’s important that the cross party support that now exists transcends party politics and is harnessed to achieve this reform.
“We believe marriage equality can be achieved through a simple vote in the parliament, however if a plebiscite is imposed upon us, we need to work together to run a positive, inclusive and respectful campaign that unites Australians from all walks of life.
“We also welcome the Opposition Leader Bill Shorten’s intention to meet with the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to discuss the path to marriage equality as a sign that cross party cooperation is starting.
“Marriage equality is a simple issue of fairness for all. All Australians should be treated equally under the law and that includes being able to marry the person they love.
“This issue is about members of our families, our friends, neighbours and workmates. They should be able to have the same aspirations and opportunities in life as everyone else”, Dr Robinson concluded.
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