Premium Content:

Conscience Vote Likely Says Turnbull

Malcolm Turnbull webshotAbbott Government Minister Malcolm Turnbull has predicted a conscience vote on marriage equality will be allowed during the current term of government.

‘‘I think it is likely that we will (have a free vote), but as Tony Abbott has said, it is a decision for the party room, not for him,’’ Mr Turnbull told Sky News earlier today.

- Advertisement -

‘‘If a free vote is allowed I will certainly vote in favour of a marriage equality bill,’’ said the member for Wentworth, restating his support.

Mr Turnbull said Australia was falling out of step with countries we are culturally similar to.

‘‘So people of the same sex can get married in Auckland and Wellington, Toronto and Ottawa and Vancouver, in New York and Los Angeles, and Baltimore, in Cape Town, but not Australia.

‘‘It does start to look as if we’re the ones out of step.’’

Despite his support for marriage equality Mr Turnbull said it would be inappropriate for him to co-sponsor a bill with Labor’s Tanya Plibersek, as he is a member of the cabinet.
OIP Staff

Latest

TV heart throb James Van Der Beek dies aged 48

In 2024 the actor shared he was being treated for colorectal cancer. He is survived by his wife and six children.

Senator Claire Chandler leads conservative resignations from Liberal front bench

The exodus of Angus Taylor supporters has begun.

Michelle Rogers appointed chair of Rainbow Futures WA

The respected education and community leader takes up the role next month.

Get ready for ‘Whispering Jack – The John Farnham Musical’

Michael Paynter will take on the lead role in this new show from Sydney Theatre Company.

Newsletter

Don't miss

TV heart throb James Van Der Beek dies aged 48

In 2024 the actor shared he was being treated for colorectal cancer. He is survived by his wife and six children.

Senator Claire Chandler leads conservative resignations from Liberal front bench

The exodus of Angus Taylor supporters has begun.

Michelle Rogers appointed chair of Rainbow Futures WA

The respected education and community leader takes up the role next month.

Get ready for ‘Whispering Jack – The John Farnham Musical’

Michael Paynter will take on the lead role in this new show from Sydney Theatre Company.

On This Gay Day | In 1982 the film ‘Making Love’ was released

The film was considered groundbreaking for its time.

TV heart throb James Van Der Beek dies aged 48

In 2024 the actor shared he was being treated for colorectal cancer. He is survived by his wife and six children.

Senator Claire Chandler leads conservative resignations from Liberal front bench

The exodus of Angus Taylor supporters has begun.

Michelle Rogers appointed chair of Rainbow Futures WA

The respected education and community leader takes up the role next month.