A new poll released by GetUp shows Immigration Minister Peter Dutton’s own electorate supports a free parliamentary vote on marriage equality.

Mr Dutton has recently been pushing for a postal plebiscite on the issue, which has been criticised by LGBTIQ+ advocates and MPs on all sides of politics.

A ReachTEL poll of 708 residents in Mr Dutton’s electorate of Dickson shows almost 70% support for a free vote on marriage equality in both houses.

In response to the question – ‘Do you believe the government should allow a free vote for marriage equality in Parliament and resolve the issue?’ – 50% of residents over 65 support the notion, while over 70% of 18 – 50 year olds want to see a free vote.

GetUp’s Campaign Director Sally Rugg says Peter Dutton’s electorate have sent a clear message.

“They want marriage equality, and they want it achieved in parliament without fuss and fluster,” Rugg said.

“Moderates within the Liberal party have plans to push for marriage equality as soon as parliament returns in August. Is Peter Dutton genuinely considering holding a postal opinion poll to undermine a sensible push for marriage equality from within his own party?

“The idea of a postal plebiscite is truly daft, and this poll is proof that despite Dutton’s frantic spruiking, the electorate aren’t buying it,” Rugg continued.

“Every person deserves the right to marry the person they love. Every parent and grandparent deserves the right to see their child find happiness in marriage. Every child deserves the right to have their families seen as equal by the law.”

GetUp volunteers will hold a marriage equality community phone-bank in Brisbane later this week, speaking to voters in Dickson about how they can amp up the pressure on Mr Dutton to see a free vote held as soon as possible.

OIP Staff