REMEMBER WHEN

GOLD COAST BULLETIN Friday May 28, 2004

THE Peter Falconio case dominated the news but the Howard Government made a far-reaching decision – to ban gay marriages and outlaw overseas adoptions by gay couples.

Prime Minister John Howard announced the move, angering gay groups and prompting accusations that he was homophobic, but winning support from church and family organisations.

But Labor said it was likely to support the legislation, heading off a divisive pre-election debate about marriage in the Senate.

Mr Howard said the Government strongly believed marriage should be defined as a lifetime voluntary union of a man and a woman.

He also said the Government did not support gay couples adopting children, but said the Federal Government had no power to overturn state laws.

While the marriage announcement was a blow to gay rights, Mr Howard did announce plans to ensure gay couples could have better access to equal rights under superannuation laws.

Mr Howard denied the changes were designed to corner Labor in the lead up to an election.

“We’re protecting the most important institution in our society,’’ Mr Howard said.

He said the move was designed to prevent gay couples marrying overseas, then seeking court rulings in Australia on the status of the marriage.

“The definition of a marriage ... should rest in the hands ultimately of the parliament of the nation and should not, over time, potentially be subject to redefinition or change by courts,’’ Mr Howard said.