Australians say Yes to marriage equality
Australians have overwhelmingly voted Yes to the question of whether LGBTI Australians can marry the person they love. 61.6% of people who voted in the marriage equality postal survey voted Yes. 133 out of 150 electorates voted Yes.
Related story on the continuing debate on the Marriage Equality Bill
Anna Brown, Director of Legal Advocacy with the Human Rights Law Centre and Co-Chair of the Equality Campaign, said it was incredible to see such strong support for marriage equality and a fair go for all LGBTI Australians right across the nation.
“The nation has put its heart into winning this survey. LGBTI Australians, their friends and families will be celebrating. All Australians should have the same opportunities for love, commitment and happiness. All Australians should be able to marry the person they love. This result confirms that the majority of Australians absolutely agree,” said Ms Brown.
12.7 million Australians returned their surveys in the optional postal survey, representing 79.5 per cent of voters.
Lee Carnie, lawyer with the Human Rights Law Centre, said it was incredible to see such a high level of turnout right across the nation.
“Australians have responded to the postal survey in numbers that are overwhelming and with efforts that are both touching and beautiful. This result shows how important this issue is to Australians and the urgency with which we expect Parliament to pass a fair bill to ensure all Australians are treated equally.”
The journey to marriage equality will not end with today’s announcement of the survey result; legislation will still need to be passed by Parliament.
“The country and the world will be watching our Parliament closely. Today’s strong ‘Yes’ result should put an end to politicians in Canberra playing games with the lives and dignity of same-sex couples across Australia. It is an opportunity to pass marriage equality to bring great happiness to so many Australians and it takes from no one,” said Lee Carnie.
“Australians have done their job, now it's time for the politicians to do theirs and vote through a fair bill that delivers marriage equality this week. This is about everyday Australians – our families, friends, neighbours, colleagues and teammates who should very soon enjoy the same status and dignity as every other Australian. Achieving marriage equality will be a unifying moment for the nation. Let’s get on with it,” said Anna Brown.
What's the next step on the path to marriage equality? Read our explainer to find out about the different proposals on the table.
For media inquiries and interviews:
Michelle Bennett, HRLC’s Director of Communications: 0419 100 519