Calls for marriage law referendum

For broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 23 June 2013.

As the federal Senate this week overwhelmingly voted down another Greens bill seeking to normalise same sex marriage by the back door, DLP Senator John Madigan has reignited calls for a federal referendum on gay marriage.

Senator Madigan said a referendum on the issue offered a chance for the Australian people to have their say on the contentious issue.  He said defining marriage should not be left to the whim of the parliament, and marriage was a cornerstone of human society predating any religious or political system.

The Australian Christian Lobby’s Nick Overton agreed, saying a “circuit breaker” was needed to resolve the issue.  A referendum would allow a fair and balanced debate, with arguments for and against the unique benefits of natural marriage for children and society.

Australians tell me they’re tired of the marriage debate.  It’s time to move on.  A referendum might help achieve that.

I’m Rod Benson for the NSW Council of Churches.