An Australian senator is expected to
propose legislation which would recognize the international marriages
of gay and lesbian couples.
Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said
she would introduce the bill next month.
The move comes a day after nearby New
Zealand approved a gay marriage bill.
(Related: New
Zealand: Fourteenth nation to legalize gay marriage.)
“Australia same-sex couples are now
lining up to get married in New Zealand and the sad thing is they are
not going to be recognized here,” Hanson-Young told ABC News 24.
“They shouldn't have to leave their marriage at the customs gate.
Let's recognize overseas marriage here in Australia.”
Despite polls showing a large majority
(60%) of Australians support marriage equality, a marriage bill was
defeated in parliament last year.
Shortly after Wednesday's vote in New
Zealand, Australia Prime Minister Julia Gillard, an opponent of
marriage equality, said she was unmoved.
“I doubt we're going to end up
agreeing,” she said.
New Zealand's law will take effect in
August.