Australians have until midnight tonight to ensure they’re listed on the Commonwealth Electoral Roll and can take part in the same-sex marriage postal survey.
The ABS, which will conduct the survey, said that an Australian Marriage Law Survey Form will be sent by post to every eligible Australian over a two week period starting on 12th September.
The survey will ask one question – “Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?” – and the ABS said completion of the form, which needs to be mailed back in a supplied reply paid envelope, is voluntary.
“Those who choose to not complete the form are encouraged to destroy it by tearing it into two or more parts,” the ABS said.
Earlier this week, Pastor Brian Houston, senior pastor of Hillsong Church, issued a statement in which he encouraged all Christians to take part in the survey.
“Whatever your view on this issue, it is undeniably one that is important to the fabric of our social structure,” he said in the statement. “Changing the definition of marriage has wide-reaching ramifications and should not be taken lightly by any society. All Australians should be a part of this process, not just a select few.”
Stating that he believed “God’s word is clear that marriage is between a man and a woman” as are the writings of Paul on the subject of homosexuality, he said that for Christians, “the issue is also a matter of faith and Biblical teaching, something that should never be mocked or downplayed by those with opposing views”.
“Throughout this entire debate, some on both sides of the argument have failed to understand and respect the views of others,” he said. “Some of those advocating for change to the definition of marriage have confused faith convictions with bigotry however they must understand that Christian – and other religious – beliefs are extremely important to those who hold them and in fact are vital to a tolerant and free society.” He said that, “sadly” some have also used Christianity to “alienate and even condemn those who are gay and dismiss their desire to pursue happiness”.
Noting that Hillsong Church “already functions well and without impediment in other parts of the world where same sex marriage is legal”, Mr Houston said that “as long as we are not forced through legislation to compromise our biblical convictions, we can quite comfortably continue to function whatever the outcome of this plebiscite”.
