ACT became the first Australian jurisdiction to Legalize Gay Marriage

More Marriage Equality news.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Labor Government passed a bill that brings gay marriage to Australia.

Now, as the law stands, gay couples from across Australia will be able to get married by the end of the year.

Here's more from ABC.AU:

"There is no longer any excuse, if there ever was, to discriminate against same-sex couples in our community," Chief Minister Katy Gallagher told the Assembly.

"They are our children, our parents, our brothers, our sisters, our leaders, our business people, our mentors and our colleagues.

"More than anything, they are our equals. The Marriage Equality Act puts this fundamental principle and human right into law."

Mr Rattenbury says he is proud to stand for equality.

"Perhaps most simply I am proud to stand in support of the notion that two people who love each other should be able to get married," he said.

Amendments were also passed to strengthen the laws against any challenge in the High Court.

Watch the news coverage after the jump





Read more: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/act-passes-same-sex-marriage-bill-20131022-2vy5o.html#ixzz2iQPC3c7o