New South Wales’ newly elected Independent Alex Greenwich has conducted his maiden speech to parliament, with a strong emphasis on gay marriage rights. The openly gay MP spoke to a full public gallery, making his intentions clear –‘I look forward to being an active member of the multi-party marriage equality working group.
‘This house has the opportunity and duty to strengthen anti-discrimination laws so, for example, teachers can no longer be fired and students can no longer be expelled, for being gay’, he said.
‘We must also put an end to the ‘gay panic’ defence’.
Greenwich has replaced Clover Moore, who stepped down from the position to remain the Sydney Lord Mayor.