Lobby calls on Barnett Govt to enact civil unions

New poll shows WA supports equality for same-sex relationships

Gay and Lesbian Equality (WA) Inc. has called on the Barnett Government to introduce improvements to WA's de facto couple laws in the wake of the new poll showing most Western Australians support same-sex marriage.

The Galaxy Poll, conducted on 29-31 May 2009, shows that a majority of 59% of Western Australians support same sex marriages, while 37% do not.

GALE spokesperson Rod Swift said the new poll demonstrates that Western Australia should be following the lead of other states and introducing a formalised civil union scheme for all de facto couples.

"It is clear that introducing a civil union certificate scheme is now supported by most people in our community, and would provide practical benefits to all unmarried couples in WA," Mr Swift said.

"For example, it would allow de facto couples to choose to have a certificate which clearly and unequivocally shows that they are in a relationship, which can be used as evidence of the relationship when dealing with government and business."

Mr Swift said that all parties should be working together in Parliament to extend and improve de facto laws in WA, and such change may hinge on the support of the Nationals.

"The Barnett government needs to outline its plan, if any, to enact civil unions in WA, and work with the other parties to implement improvements," Mr Swift said.

"If they have no plan for civil union reforms, or unwilling to make changes, then the National Party should keep to its principles and work with Labor and the Greens to bring about change."

Mr Swift said the National Party resolved to support civil unions at its WA convention in 2006.

NOTE – POLL RESULTS:

The Galaxy Poll results are available on the internet at:

http://www.australianmarriageequality.com/Galaxy200906.pdf 

MEDIA COMMENT:

Rod Swift         GALE media spokesperson 0417 890 111

Kitty Hawkins GALE co-convenor 0414 846 153

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