Australian actor Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee Furness was spotted bundling up for a walk with their daughter, Ava, in New York City. The 43-year-old actor and fellow Australian singer, Olivia Newton-John, are pledging their support for gay marriage in Australia. Australian "Marriage Equality National Convener" Alex Greenwich has welcomed their growing support for the reform.

"Australians admire celebrities like Olivia Newton-John and Hugh Jackman because they reflect our values of tolerance and a fair go for all, values which they are reminding us apply just as much as the same sex couples as to other Australians," Greenwich said in a statement.

"Australian Marriage Equality" has also welcomed the support of other well known Australians such as David Stratton and Oscar winner Lizzy Gardiner. The respected Australians have signed on to a marriage equality declaration. "Marriage should be about love and respect, not discrimination. Australia is at its best when we value equality over prejudice and fear. That's why we support marriage equality for same-sex couples. Marriage equality will help remove discrimination against same-sex couples and their children. It will also benefit marriage by allowing it to embrace more loving committed couples who uphold its values. It's time for Australia to join the other nations that have benefitted from this important reform," the declaration states.

"Hugh, David, and Lizzy are all happily married straight supporters of equality. They know how important marriage is to a couple and their families, and like most Australians they don't feel same-sex couples should be denied the meaning and benefits of marriage," Greenwich said. David Stratton is one of Australia's most respected film critics and co-host of "At the Movies" on ABC TV. Meanwhile, Lizzy Gardiner is a Hollywood-based Australian fashion designer who has won accolades for her costume design for films such as "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" and "Mission Impossible II."

Film Director and screenwriter Stephan Elliott has also put the call out to Australian celebrities asking them for their support. He joined the campaign for marriage equality because he felt it is time the government reflected the strong and growing support for marriage equality. "Australians are more accepting of same-sex couples than ever, it is time our laws reflected this, and this year our politicians will have the opportunity to make a positive change for good by supporting marriage equality," Elliott said.

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