Anthony Albanese, Labor’s Shadow Minister for Tourism says Australian tourism would get a huge boost if marriage equality was legalised in Australia.

Albanese says wedding ceremonies, honeymoons and tourism from overseas guests would be help the Australia economy. The MP says currently Australia is losing out to neighbour New Zealand as Australian couple head overseas to wed.

“Take for example the fact that 270 Australian couple in same-sex relationships got married last year in New Zealand alone. That’s foregone revenue to Australia of the ceremonies that took place, the after honeymoons and other activities that take place. That’s jobs forgone here in Australia.

Albanese said part of the debate about marriage equality should include the economic benefits.

“I think part of the debate , that will be taking place as people think about whether they’ll support marriage equality in this postal survey, should be, not just about the individuals, but our national economy.

“There’s a real argument about why its an important boost to our economy if marriage economy occurs.” Albanese said.

Australian Marriage Equality has previously estimated that the introduction of marriage equality could provide a $700 million boost to the economy.

OIP Staff