‘WHAT A DAY FOR LOVE,’ PM SAYS AS GAY MARRIAGE LEGALIZED

CANBERRA Australia’s Parliament voted Thursday to allow same-sex marriage across the country, following a bitter debate settled by a much-criticized government survey of voters that strongly endorsed change.

The bill changes the definition of marriage from solely between a man and a woman to “a union of two people” excluding all others.

The legislation passed with a majority that wasn’t challenged, although four lawmakers registered their opposition.

“What a day. What a day for love, for equality, for respect. Australia has done it,” Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told Parliament.

The Senate passed the same legislation last week 43 votes to 12. The government later announced same-sex couples will be able to apply to marry starting Saturday, with the first weddings potentially on Jan. 6.