The Australian Education Union has today condemned the Turnbull Government’s failure on marriage equality and called on Malcolm Turnbull to immediately deliver a parliamentary vote.

Correna Haythorpe, Federal President of the Australian Education Union said the Turnbull Government has yet again failed to address ongoing inequality in Australia.

“The Turnbull Government’s decision to hold a postal vote before a parliamentary vote contradicts the proper role of government to respect, support and protect citizens,” said Ms Haythorpe.

“Australians want and deserve marriage equality. It’s time for the Federal Government to stop playing politics with people’s lives and deliver.

“We are deeply concerned about the impact of this toxic and hurtful debate on the LGBTIQ community, and specifically for educators, young people and families in our preschools, schools and TAFEs.

“Teachers and principals care deeply about the welfare of all students and families in their school community, they see firsthand how destructive the negative debate on marriage equality is and want action to address this now.

“The Government’s decision shows they prefer to take a self-serving and politically expedient approach rather than delivering long-overdue marriage equality. This is simply unacceptable.

“It is time for Prime Minister Turnbull to show leadership, by tabling legislation and allowing a conscience vote in the Coalition, to immediately deliver marriage equality for our country.

“The AEU is strongly opposed to the Federal Government’s approach, which is more about satisfying the bigotry of sections of the Liberal Party, rather than the interests or will of the community.

“The AEU will continue to support the LGBTIQ community and campaign for marriage equality, with other unions and progressive organisations,” said Ms Haythorpe.

Media Contact: Siobhan Lyttle 0481 751 579