Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Bill 2017

The majority voted against an amendment that would have extended the right of "conscientious exemption" to civil celebrants so that they can refuse to solemnise a marriage. It was introduced by Liberal Senator George Brandis (Qld) also on behalf of Liberal Senator Matthew Canavan (Qld).

Why did some Liberals vote Yes and others No?

The Liberal Party was split on this issue, with some voting Yes and others voting No. This split within the party is unusual but, given the nature of the subject matter of the vote, the Liberal Party decided to run this as a free vote, meaning that its members could vote however they chose rather than having to vote along party lines.

What does this bill do?

This bill will allow same-sex couples to marry under Australian law. However, it will also:

enable ministers of religion, religious marriage celebrants, chaplains and bodies established for religious purposes to refuse to solemnise or provide facilities, goods and services for marriages on religious grounds; and make amendments ... to provide that a refusal by a minister of religion, religious marriage celebrant or chaplain to solemnise marriage in prescribed circumstances does not constitute unlawful discrimination.

Read more in the bills digest.