Legislation to allow civil unions for same-sex couples is expected to be introduced to Queensland parliament tonight.

Deputy Premier Andrew Fraser has won a fight to have his private member’s bill introduced despite the opposition saying it’s a “cheap political trick”.

Kimberley McCosker reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Same-sex couples may soon reach another milestone in their fight for marriage equality.

A Civil Unions Bill, expected to be introduced to parliament tonight, will allow same-sex relationships to be officially registered in Queensland.

Andrew Fraser, Deputy Premier: “We should, in a civil society, not live a fiction through our laws. Our laws should accept the truth of human relationships.”

The LNP has made it very clear they will not be supporting the bill.

Jeff Seeney, Opposition Leader: “It is obviously a cheap political stunt.”

Political analysts say while the bill is a move forward for same-sex couples, it’s only a stepping stone in a longer fight.

Federal laws will need to change to achieve true marriage equality.

Katharine Gelber, UQ School of Politics: “It’s quite possible that there’s a public majority support out there that’s not very vocal, but that might enable parliament to carry it through.”

According to recent polls, 62 per cent of Australians support same-sex marriage, while 75 per cent believe it will one day be legal.

Gay and lesbian rights advocates think the move sends a strong message to federal politicians to legalise same-sex marriage.

Shelley Argent, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays: “We are another state that has now moved towards civil partnerships. And I think that reflects the general population of Australia, which is showing the majority of Australia do support marriage equality.”

Andrew Fraser says the bill is likely to be debated before the end of the year.

Kimberley McCosker, QUT News.