Love well and truly triumphed there…
Earlier this week, 61.6% of Australians voted to legalise same-sex marriage in a non-binding vote, despite a campign heavily marred by horrific instances of homophobia.
One of the most vocal opponents to a Yes vote was the country’s former Prime Minister, Tony Abbott. As it turns out, his views weren’t shared by his constituents in Warringah, as 75% of them voted in favour of same-sex marriage.
A breakdown of the votes shows that this was the 10th highest Yes vote in the country.
During the campaign, Abbott said that a No vote would “stop political correctness in its tracks.”
Speaking to reporters at the time he said: “If you’re worried about religious freedom and freedom of speech, vote ‘No’, and if you don’t like political correctness, vote ‘No’ because voting ‘No’ will help to stop political correctness in its tracks.”
Nick Karvounis via Unsplash
Abbott was less conciliatory following the result, saying that “the people have spoken and the parliament should respect that result”.
He added, however, that the bill should provide “freedom of conscience for all, not just the churches”.
A bill to change the law around marriage in Australia was introduced into the Senate on Wednesday, and will now be debated for any further amendments.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has confirmed plans for his government to try and pass the amended Marriage Act by Christmas.
Related: Watch the moment a gay couple get engaged as Australia announces Marriage Equality result
Latest
