Fairness and equality are at the heart of Australian society. Here are some things you can do if you believe our laws should reflect these values of which we are most proud.
Why is marriage important?
Marriage matters to Australian society. It is the secure foundation for loving, committed couples. Everyone in our families, communities and country should be free to marry on those terms.
Currently, lesbian and gay couples are excluded from marriage — which means their loving, committed relationships are not treated the same as others, and do not have the equal status under the law. Put simply, marriage is important in Australian society and important to LGBTI couples.
Furthermore, winning the freedom to marry will enrich the lives not just of gay people, but of the wider community: Family members, friends, coworkers and fellow citizens. It’s about the father who will be able to walk his lesbian daughter down the aisle. The grandmother who will be able to dance with her gay grandson at his wedding. Australians will be able to celebrate all of their friends’ love and commitment equally. Businesses and community members will benefit when all families are strengthened, affirmed and included.
Each new generation of Australians does their bit to advance fairness and equality. Affirming all couples’ freedom to marry says that we are a country that believes in treating people equally — that we value love and commitment and believe every Australian has the right to happiness.
