[Greens-Media] On eve of UK equality, Greens introduce bill to recognise international same-sex marriages

[Schultz-Byard, Noah (Sen S. Hanson-Young)]

MEDIA RELEASE

Friday, 28 March 2014

On eve of UK equality, Greens announce bill to recognise international same-sex marriages

On the eve of the first same-sex marriages in the UK, the Australian Greens have announced that they will introduce a bill giving legal recognition to international same-sex marriages in Australia.

"Gay and lesbian Australians shouldn't have to check their marriage licenses at the customs gate," the Greens' LGBTI spokesperson, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said.

"While some of our closest allies are busily reaping the tourism rewards that come with marriage equality, Australia is stuck in the past.

"We will push for a Senate Inquiry into this bill, so that the Parliament can gain a greater understanding of the impact that marriage equality has had overseas.

"I am calling on Tony Abbott to allow his members a conscience vote on this important piece of legislation.

"By recognising same-sex marriages from overseas, as we do with all other marriages, this bill will help gay and lesbian Australians who are in loving relationships get the recognition that they deserve.

"This is a first step for Australia along the road to marriage equality and an important one at that.

"The time for marriage equality came long ago. Most Australians understand that and it's the Australian Government's duty to catch up."


Media Contact: Noah Schultz-Byard 0427 604 760

NOAH SCHULTZ-BYARD STRATEGY AND COMMUNICATIONS ADVISER

OFFICE OF SENATOR SARAH HANSON-YOUNG
AUSTRALIAN GREENS SENATOR FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA
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