[Greens-Media] The Time Has Come for Marriage Equality!

[Franks, Office]

Greens' Gender and Sexuality spokesperson, Tammy Franks MLC, has sent her congratulations to the Tasmanian Government on the introduction of the Tasmanian Same-Sex Marriage Bill 2012 and looks forward to the passage of the bill.

"The Tasmanian Parliament should be congratulated for their ground-breaking leadership on same -sex marriage. Removing the discrimination faced by same sex attracted couples is long overdue. Whilst the Commonwealth Marriage Act can only be changed in the Federal Parliament, it's clear that the majority of Australian people support marriage equality and oppose the continued discrimination, prejudice and homophobia.

"The time is right therefore for states to now follow their hearts and consciences - to remove the institutional prejudice that has blighted the lives of many in the community, by preventing them from legitimizing their relationship status in the way that heterosexual couples are entitled to.

"Advice given by eminent legal minds such as constitutional law expert Professor George Williams has indicated that the ability of states to legislate for marriage equality should be able to withstand legal challenges.

"But why should the states have to worry? Why should a small minority of people be able to insist that unequal and inequitable treatment be permitted to continue on the basis of a person's gender or sexuality?  In Australia today the time is right to move forward fairness and equity and away from plain old-fashioned bigotry.

"Our political leaders must acknowledge the tide has turned nationally and internationally towards fairness, tolerance and inclusivity. New Zealand, under a conservative government, has come out strongly just this week and voted in a two to one majority in support of marriage equality, virtually guaranteeing the passage of the bill.

"Australians have shown in poll after poll that they too support equal marriage and Tasmania now has the opportunity to lead the nation. This move will not only put Tasmania into the history books, but also give them a 'first mover advantage' when it comes to the multi-million dollar economic benefits from 'pink dollar' tourism.

"The passage of this legislation will demonstrate Tasmania leads the way in progressive social change in the 21st century and is hugely welcomed and long overdue," Ms Franks concluded.


Tammy Franks' Marriage Equality Bill that would allow same sex marriage in SA is currently before the Legislative Council.

For further comment contact Jamnes Danenberg 0457 549 938