We do: Bill gets yes vote

SAME-SEX couples will be able to tie the knot from January 9 after federal parliament finally ended an at times bitter and divisive decade-old fight over marriage equality.

Celebrations erupted across Queensland and Australia last night after the House of Representatives passed Liberal MP Dean Smith’s landmark private member’s Bill, with just four MPs voting against it.

Gold Coast public relations maestro Andrew Meadowcroft said it was a “day for celebration”.

“Although I was very vocal in my opposition to a public vote, fortunately a majority of Australians voted yes and finally the law has now passed.

“For those who are not in a same sex relationship, nothing changes, however for those in a gay relationship this day is momentous. I have been with my partner for almost 20 years. It is definitely something we have discussed. Who knows what 2018 will bring but at least we have the option now to get married.”

After a marathon debate yesterday on a series of proposed amendments, which were all defeated, the Bill was passed in a resounding vote.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull declared it a “great day” in Australian history as the country became the 26th to legalise same-sex marriage.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said the result spoke for a modern Australia, “inclusive and fair”.

From tomorrow, Australians who have already tied the knot overseas will have their marriages recognised here.

Same-sex couples will also be able to lodge notices of their intended weddings, which have a one-month waiting period.

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