Maribyrnong council is throwing its support behind the growing campaign for marriage equality.
Councillor Sarah Carter moved a motion at the last council meeting calling on the council to support marriage equality. The council will write to all federal members of Parliament and the Commonwealth Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commissioner advising them of the council’s decision.
Cr Carter said the vast majority of Australians support same-sex marriage.
“It’s just time. It’s common sense and it’s logical and it’s also about equality, the community does not want to tolerate discrimination.”
Cr Carter said the stance may attract criticism for being outside local government business but she believes the overwhelming community demand for change needs to be supported.
“We want to send a clear message that we are expecting leadership on this.
“I have a sister who is gay … I can’t fathom a world in which she can’t marry a woman she loves.”
Cr Carter said the groundswell of support would eventually be too much for political leaders to ignore.
“I have absolutely no doubt it will happen, it’s just a matter of when.”
Cr Catherine Cumming said she supported the proposal and believed the council had a responsibility to reflect the community’s view on the matter.
