Momentous victory for equal rights

11 December 2017

The Law Society of NSW congratulates Federal Parliament for passing the Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Bill 2017.

President of The Law Society of NSW Pauline Wright said it marked a recognition by the Australian people that everybody is entitled to equality and human rights.

"The Australian people have made clear there is no place in our laws for discrimination against any group of people on any grounds including on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity," Ms Wright said.

Ms Wright said the amendments to the laws governing marriage ensured Australia was now in step with its international human rights obligations that stipulate all persons are equal before the law and entitled to equal protection without discrimination.

"Denying couples of the same sex the right to marry is against the fundamental principle of equality before the law," she said.

The Law Society of NSW has called upon Federal Parliament to legislate to remove the discriminatory restrictions against couples of the same sex since 2012.

"We have maintained serious concerns about the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTIQ people and their families including those in the legal profession," Ms Wright said.

"The Law Society remains committed to ensuring that all Australians are equal before the law in rights and dignity, regardless of attributes including sexual orientation or gender identity."

Ms Wright said she recognised the debate about marriage equality had been challenging and distressing for many in the community.

"I recognise and respect the diversity of views in the legal profession concerning same-sex marriage. It is now time for us to come together and move forward united in our objectives to uphold the rule of law."