SPEECH: Marriage Equality Bill (No.2) 2012

I am proud to be here today to present this bill that amends the Marriage Act to establish marriage equality in Australia.

I believe in the institution of marriage. Marriage is not only a private, mutual commitment of love and friendship between two people—it is also a public recognition of this commitment, bringing with it important social, cultural, psychological, administrative and legal benefits to a married couple.… .

SECOND READING SPEECH: Stronger Futures Bills 2012

I have waited many, many weeks and many, many months to provide my contribution to this debate on what we would probably call the Stronger Futures packages. We are talking tonight about three bills: the main bill itself, the Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill 2012; the consequential provisions bill; and changes to elements of the social security legislation.… .