Perth wasn’t the only city to have rally for marriage equality over the weekend. Large crowds also turned out in Hobart, Sydney and Melbourne.
A marriage equality rally in Hobart on Saturday afternoon (pictured) attracted such a large crowd it overflowed into surrounding streets.
Tasmanian Premier, Will Hodgman, has supported the Federal Government allowing federal MPs a free vote on the issue.
“There are a wide range of views on the subject of same sex marriage but one thing is clear that is the Marriage Act is Commonwealth legislation and as the High Court determined over a year ago the states cannot legislate to allow same sex marriage. Only the Commonwealth can legislate in this area. The Liberal Party in Tasmania allows a conscience vote on this issue. I would hope Federal members are also able to exercise a free vote.” Mr Hodgman said.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said
“Ahead of the introduction of a cross-party bill this week, the rally sends a strong message to federal parliament that Tasmanians want marriage equality.”
“Will Hodgman’s support for a free vote is consistent with the foundational Liberal Party principle of individual freedom and will significantly increase pressure on Tony Abbott to allow Liberal MPs to vote according to their consciences.”
The 1500 people attending the rally heard from Tasmanian celebrities, leaders and advocates.
Speakers included Hobart Lord Mayor, Sue Hickey, Aria award winner, Monique Brumby, My Kitchen Rules star, Matt Newell, Senator Lisa Singh, Senator Carol Brown, Senator-designate, Nick McKim, Get Up! campaigner, Sally Rugg and Rodney Croome.
The audience also heard from Nick Outterside who spoke about being raised by two mothers and the death of one before they were able to marry.
In Brisbane over 5000 people attended a rally where Lisa Origliasso from The Veronicas joined ‘Black Comedy’ star Steven Oliver who both spoke to the crowd.
At the Brisbane rally organiser Jess Payne from Equal Love Brisbane dialed the ‘Equality Calling’ hotline and held her phone up to the microphone getting the whole crowd to leave a message for local politicians.
A rally was also held in Sydney, next weekend there are rallies in Adelaide and Melbourne.
Image: Australian Marriage Equality
