Call for state leaders to pressure PM on marriage equality

LGBTQIA+ advocates are calling on Australia’s state and territory leaders to put pressure on Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull for a free vote on marriage equality in federal parliament.

Each of the nation’s current state leaders have voiced their support for marriage equality in Australia, with a number state parliaments (including WA) passing motions urging the federal government to act.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson Rodney Croome says state and territory governments can demonstrate their support for marriage equality by lobbying Mr Turnbull to allow a free vote.

“Tasmanian Liberal Premier, Will Hodgman, has honoured the Liberal Party principle of individual freedom by allowing his MPs a free vote on marriage equality, setting a precedent for Mr Turnbull to do the same.”

Mr Croome also noted that a recent Galaxy Poll commissioned by Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) shows the Coalition could lose over 1 million voters if they do not act on marriage equality in this term.

The call comes as state, territory and federal government leaders are due to meet in Hobart tomorrow for the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting, the top intergovernmental forum in Australia.

OIP Staff