Same-sex marriage will become legal in Australia this year, Tony Abbott’s sister predicts
The Australian MP’s lesbian sister has predicted that the country will have same-sex marriage by the end of the year – despite her brother’s opposition.
Tony Abbott, the leader of the Liberal Party, is a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage despite overwhelming public support – and has consistently ducked calls to give his MPs a free vote on the issue.
After the Republic of Ireland voted overwhelmingly in favour of same-sex marriage, Mr Abbott was quick to rule out the possibility of a referendum happening in Australia, claiming referendums can only be held for constitutional changes.
However, after opposition Labor leader Bill Shorten announced he would file a bill pushing on the issue, equality activists are starting to think that equality might come sooner rather than later.
Christine Forster – who has hit out at her Prime Minister brother a number of times over the issue – said she was confident progress will be made this year.
She told ABC Lateline: “The Irish decision, watching what unfolded in conservative Ireland … to see that astounding result … that would have told any thinking opponent of this reform that it is inevitable in a developed Western democracy like Australia.
“That will be for me one of the proudest moments of my life.
“To think that this reform comes under the prime ministership of Tony Abbott … I think it’s entirely appropriate that it would come under the prime ministership of Tony Abbott.
“At the end of the day I’m sure he will understand that this is good and fair for everybody and it will be great for Australia.”
She also added that her brother could not block it by himself, saying: “It’s not up to Tony to allow or disallow anything. There will be a debate and there will be a decision made by the party room.”
