THE HON. BILL SHORTEN MP
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
SHADOW MINISTER FOR INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS & ABORIGINAL AND
TORRES STRAIT ISLANDERS
MEMBER FOR MARIBYRNONG
THE HON TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
DEPUTY LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
SHADOW MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING
SHADOW MINISTER FOR WOMEN
MEMBER FOR SYDNEY
SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION IN THE SENATE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
LABOR SENATOR FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA
THE HON MARK DREYFUS QC MP
SHADOW ATTORNEY-GENERAL
SHADOW MINISTER FOR NATIONAL SECURITY
MEMBER FOR ISAACS
TERRI BUTLER MP
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR PREVENTING FAMILY VIOLENCE
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR UNIVERSITIES
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR EQUALITY
MEMBER FOR GRIFFITH
MARRIAGE EQUALITY PASSES THE SENATE
The passage of marriage equality legislation through the Senate marks a historic day for all of Australia.
It is a great day for LGBTIQ Australians, their families, friends and all who love them.
Taking such a significant step toward equality makes Australia a better place for all.
Labor would like to thank all those who have worked so hard to get us to this point, including those in the Equality Campaign and associated groups, Senator Dean Smith, and members and Senators from other parties.
Parliament is at its best when it works together toward a common cause.
Of course, we are not quite there yet.
Unfortunately, debate of this bill in the lower house has been delayed due to Prime Minister Turnbull's refusal to turn up to work in Canberra today.
It is frustrating no further progress can be made this week.
Nevertheless, Labor calls on members of the House of Representatives to expedite the passage of this Bill next week.
Labor urges any members seeking to delay the passage of the bill through the lower house to re-think their plans, and honour the will of the Australian people to achieve marriage equality without delay.
Let’s get this done.
WEDNESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2017
