Debate resumed from 23 September, on motion by Mr McClelland:

That this bill be now read a second time.

upon which Ms Ley moved by way of amendment:

That all words after “That” be omitted with a view to substituting the following words: “whilst not declining to give the bill a second reading, the House:

(1)

affirms its commitment to the central importance of the institution of marriage to Australian society;

(2)

nevertheless recognises that partners in same-sex relationships ought not to be discriminated against on the basis of their sexuality, and ought to be treated on a similar basis to partners in heterosexual de facto relationships;

(3)

recognises the right of  children who live in same-sex households not to be discriminated against; and

(4)

notes that the Opposition has referred the bill to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee for reporting by September 30 with a view to ensuring that, in removing discrimination against people in same-sex relationships:

(a)

the centrality of marriage is not devalued, whether by the use of inappropriate statutory language or otherwise;

(b)

there is no unintended recognition of same sex marriage, including through amendments to the Migration Act 1961;

(c)

the rights and status of children are properly protected; and

(d)

the rights and status of people in interdependent relationships other than same-sex relationships are recognised and properly protected”.

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