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

Senator Ralph Babet ignores sanctions over offensive online comments

United Australia senator ignores commissions directions over his offensive online comments.

Letters to faith leaders from federal government confirm no action on LGBTIQA+ discrimination

Senator Fatima Payman forced the government to release documents showing the lack of action.

Take a look at the trailer for Miriam Margolyes in ‘Holy Days’

Miriam Margolyes os joined by acting greats Judy Davis and Jacki Weaver.

Rainbow Families strengthen national voice and regional connection

Rainbow Families made it to Mardi Gras and Albany Pride.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Senator Ralph Babet ignores sanctions over offensive online comments

United Australia senator ignores commissions directions over his offensive online comments.

Letters to faith leaders from federal government confirm no action on LGBTIQA+ discrimination

Senator Fatima Payman forced the government to release documents showing the lack of action.

Take a look at the trailer for Miriam Margolyes in ‘Holy Days’

Miriam Margolyes os joined by acting greats Judy Davis and Jacki Weaver.

Rainbow Families strengthen national voice and regional connection

Rainbow Families made it to Mardi Gras and Albany Pride.

Aldous Harding shares new song and an album is on the way too

On 8th May 2026, Aldous Harding will release her fifth studio album, Train On The Island. 

Senator Ralph Babet ignores sanctions over offensive online comments

United Australia senator ignores commissions directions over his offensive online comments.

Letters to faith leaders from federal government confirm no action on LGBTIQA+ discrimination

Senator Fatima Payman forced the government to release documents showing the lack of action.

Take a look at the trailer for Miriam Margolyes in ‘Holy Days’

Miriam Margolyes os joined by acting greats Judy Davis and Jacki Weaver.