Australia Will Oppose Gay Unions

The Australian government announced it will oppose any new laws legalizing gay civil unions. Conservative Australian Prime Minister John Howard, along with Australia's influential Catholic Church, strongly opposes any laws which will allow gay marriages.

This problem rose when Australian Capital Territory (ACT) introduced a bill last week aimed at legalizing these kinds of marriages. This law will give gay couples equality with heterosexual couples, including wills and the division of property in the territory.

Jon Stanhope, chief minister of ACT, said gay couples will be able to have their relationships formally recognized beginning with the middle of next year. "There is a special place in Australian society for the institution of marriage, as historically understood," said Howard, referring to the fact that Australia defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesman Rodney Croome welcomed ACT's intentions, stating: "The Stanhope government's proposed civil union scheme is an important step towards a society in which all inter-personal love, care and commitment is valued. Inevitably we will see same-sex couples traveling to Canberra to have their unions solemnized and returning home expecting and demanding equal recognition and protection for their relationships."

Stanhope now faces a challenge, being against the government's discriminatory treatment of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Australians.

"While the ACT is determined to do what it can to afford equal protection under the law to all people, regardless of their sex or sexual orientation, it must be recognized that without changes federally, this equal treatment will be enjoyed only in relation to territory laws," he added.