The Prime Minister has ruled out putting the issue of marriage equality to a referendum, saying it's a matter for the federal parliament.

Visiting Brisbane on Sunday, Tony Abbott was asked whether it was time to let the public have their say on same-sex marriage, following the success of the yes vote in Ireland.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Credit:Grant Wells

Mr Abbott said he took the issue seriously, saying there were "good people" on either side.

"There are a range of views inside the parliament, there are a range of views inside my party room, frankly there are a range of views inside my family," he told reporters.