Australia: recognise same sex marriages

British consulates around Australia are performing same-sex marriages, which are now legal under British law, but the Australian government says it won't recognise the marriages.

Although civil partnerships are allowed in Australia, it does not recognise same sex marriages, regardless of where they were performed.

Not legally recognising same sex marriages could make life very difficult for married gay couples from the UK or any other country if they move to Australia, or even just travel within the country. Who's to say their legal rights will be recognised if they have some kind of emergency?

As more countries are legalising same-sex marriage, such as Canada, parts of Europe and the US, this is going to become a more contentious issue.

Australia is a democracy and should give equal rights to all. Please sign the petition to demand Australia recognises same sex marriages.