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LGBTI advocates are furious at the prospect that a public vote on marriage equality might not happen until next year.

During this year’s election campaign, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull continually promised if the Coalition stayed in power, the national plebiscite on same-sex marriage would happen before year’s end.


However, last night on ABC’s 7.30, Turnbull revealed the plebiscite might not happen until early in 2017.

“We would like the plebiscite to be held as soon as practicable, but again, that will depend on when the legislation is passed,” he said on the program.

“If it is not held, you know, in the latter half of this year, and recognising that parliament will be sitting for the first time on August 30, then it would be held early next year.

“My commitment to have it dealt with as soon as practicable is there, but we … have to obtain the support of the Senate. We don’t even know who the senators will be at this stage.”

I’ve tweeted it before I’ll tweet it again. There will be no Equal Marriage. Plebiscite was always delay tactic #auspol @Jim_Pembroke — Dave Saddler (@CentreHalf4ward) July 18, 2016

NSW Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby co-covenor Chris Pycroft said further delays on legislating marriage equality are unnecessary.

“We’ve known for some time that the overwhelming majority of Australians support marriage equality, and each day that passes is another day where our community does not have the fundamental human rights we deserve,” he said.

“Delays in its passage, whether it be by a vote in parliament or a (unnecessary) plebiscite, will continue to put the lives of LGBTI people under scrutiny, something which is unfair and unjust.

“We call on the re-elected Turnbull government to commit to its election promise, and address this as soon as possible and put an end to the uncertainty.”