Australia’s local governments call on Turnbull to pass marriage equality

Australia’s local governments call on Turnbull to pass marriage equality
Image: (PHOTO: David Alexander; Star Observer)

THE Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has passed a motion calling on the Federal Government to legalise same-sex marriage.

The motion was introduced at ALGA’s National General Assembly by Darwin’s Lord Mayor Katrina Fong Lim and Geelong councillor Jan Farrell.

Calling on the government to update the Marriage Act to achieve marriage equality, the motion highlighted the need for same-sex attracted people in Australia to be respected.

“This National General Assembly calls on the Federal Government to treat with dignity and respect all members of the community regardless of gender or sexuality,” the motion read.

The ALGA is the national voice of Australia’s local government, representing 560 councils across the country.

Community advocates have welcomed the passing of the motion, including leading organisation in same-sex marriage Australian Marriage Equality (AME).

AME national spokesperson Dr Shirleene Robinson said the motion sends a strong message to the Federal Government.

“We would like to thank the Australian Local Government Association for their strong support of fairness and equality for every Australian,” she said.

“From the Mayor of Darwin to rural councillors across Australia, the National Assembly sent a clear message that marriage equality is about people, not politics.”

Robinson added that it was great to see local leaders championing equality for LGBTI people around the country.

“It is great to see our local government leaders working together to deliver such a positive and affirming message to LGBTI Australians,” she said.

“We would like to especially thank Jan Farrell, who has been the driving force behind growing local government support for marriage equality for every Australian.”

If Australia’s current government is re-elected on July 2, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has committed to holding a plebiscite on marriage equality.

The Turnbull Government has allocated $160 million in the federal budget for the vote.

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One response to “Australia’s local governments call on Turnbull to pass marriage equality”

  1. Come on ALGA, it’s full marriage equality we want to achieve not just for same sex couples. So close but still wrong. Show some respect for sex and gender diverse people.