Gillard Commits to Open Debate on Same-Sex Marriage

Julia Gillard will open a democratic debate at the Labor Party's National Conference in December.

In a major speech given at Old Parliament House today Ms Gillard said, “I want there to be debates. I want there to be surprises… I don’t want to get my way on every precise detail.

“I don’t want everything sewn up by some meeting at midnight the night before – I do want change.”

Australian Marriage Equality National Convener, Alex Greenwich, has welcomed a commitment from Prime Minister.

Mr Greenwich said Ms Gillard's words are encouraging for supporters of marriage equality both within and beyond the Labor Party.

"Even though Julia Gillard opposes marriage equality it has the support of a majority of state Labor conferences and state Labor leaders, as well as the majority of the Australian people.

"Ms Gillard's commitment gives us hope nothing will be allowed to stymie the clear desire in Labor's rank and file for marriage equality, including her own opposition to change," he said.

Mr Greenwich also welcomed Ms Gillard's commitment to "opportunity for all", "individual freedom" and to "not leave anyone behind".

"The fact that the Labor Party rank and file support marriage equality is a clear sign they share these values and remain true to them."

"It was also encouraging to hear Ms Gillard condemn 'hard right wing activism that is long on fear and conspiracies and short on solutions' because much of the opposition to marriage equality takes this form."