Victory for marriage equality in New Zealand

In an historic move, the New Zealand Parliament has, on Wednesday night, voted to legalise same-sex marriage. This makes New Zealand the thirteenth country to legalise marriage for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex couples.

National director of Australian Marriage Equality, Rodney Croome, has indicated the possibility of a "flood of (Australian) couples flying to New Zealand to tie the knot," a move made possible due to the fact that marriage laws have no residency requirement. However, Australian law does not recognise same-sex marriages entered into overseas.

It is hoped that the change will put pressure on the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader to "stop holding up marriage equality here in Australia," says Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young. While Labor MPs were allowed a conscience vote in last year's private member's bill, which would have legalised same-sex marriage, Coalition MPs were forced to oppose the bill, in line with the party position.

However, Prime Minister Gillard indicated at a community cabinet in Melbourne on Wednesday night that she would not be changing her mind on the issue, despite the passing of the New Zealand legislation. Despite allowing her party a conscience vote, Ms. Gillard has remained personally opposed to same-sex marriage.

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