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Block - ReasonsI think we should block the plebiscite because it is unnecessary, wasteful and divisive. The homophobic and transphobic debate that precedes it will cause real harm to young and vulnerable LGBTI people. Parliament should do its job to protect them from, rather than expose them to, abuse.Block it because it is going to be harmful to members of the LGBTIQ community, especially young people.I think we should block the plebiscite because I worry about the impact a very negative public debate will have on the mental and physical well being of vulnerable members of the LGBTQI community. Block - it's a civil rights issue, not an issue of social conscience. A plebiscite will be extremely harmful and degrading to many people and many families. It's an absolutely terrible idea. Block, even though I am 66 and another 3 yrs wait or longer is unacceptable. I will marry in May next year, here if possible, if not in the US. The date is set. Public votes are very divisive, and there will be so much harm done, even if we win, that I simply cannot support it. It also sets a very dangerous precedent, subjecting people's rights to a vote.Either way, it will end up in with a parliamentary vote. Complete waste of money To agree to a plebiscite is to accept we are second class, and not worthy of civil rights through a parliamentary process. I think we should block the plebiscite because not only will it potentially expose younger LGBTI people to extra unnecessary discrimination I don't believe that the Liberal Party will Honour the outcome and change the law even if the plebiscite is successful. I simply DO NOT TRUST A WORD out of the mouth of Malcolm Turnbull or anyone in his party.Block the plebiscite because of the likely harm to individuals in our community, particularly young ones, and the $160 Million would best be used for health, domestic violence programs or educationI think we should block the plebiscite because it will be extremely hurtful to all LGBTI people to have to listen to the spiteful and hateful comments by the ACL etc at a time when young LGBTI people need support not the world telling them they are less than worthless I think we should block a plebiscite because it is unnecessary, expensive, divisive, non-binding and potentially dangerous. While I hold serious concerns about Marriage Equality being taken off the table should the potential plebiscite be blocked, ultimately the responsibility of amending the Marriage Act will rest with elected politicians regardless of the outcome. I am also concerned about a potential backlash should we force the Australian public to pay for and participate in this glorified opinion poll. If we read the existing polls, it's clear that we have majority support already. I believe that all Australians should be treated equally under the law - and so should our politicians. A plebiscite is transparently a stalling tactic introduced by opponents. We are yet to know how the question would be phrased and although I am confident that we have majority public support, should it for some reason be voted down, it's clear that it would be off the table for discussion for longer than 3 years. I believe that marriage should be a civil right extended to all consenting adults, but an equally important right is that our LGBTI children be spared any unnecessary hate campaign.block it because of the unacceptable risk to mental health of LGBTI folksI don't want a plebiscite because I find it unacceptable that people should vote on equal rights.I don't want a single dollar wasted on a situation that will form a division amongst the public, and further damage insecure people, no matter what the outcome. That the MPs still can vote against it despite a positive plebiscite means I am against this useless horse & pony showI don't want my children to suffer A conscience vote on equality is insulting enough, but having the entire voting population being able to vote on this issue is too much.I think we should block the plebiscite because not only is is a waste of the general public's time and money, I am genuinely scared of the harm it will cause. The timing and politics of this is shadyI don't believe equality under law should be an option, nor should joe blog down the road be able too select whether or not a group of people in this country should have equal rights and I worry the potential homophobia will affect families and closeted youthI think we should block the plebiscite because we shouldn't millions on getting opinions about whether we should have human rights. Fear that some people won't like it means my US marriage doesn't count. It astounds me that politicians can't and won't see this as discrimination and an embarrassment for Australians. I don't want a single person to suffer as a result of any homophobic, biphobic, transphobic or other-phobic attacks from hateful, bigoted, intolerant religious, xenophobic and otherwise spiteful, mean and nasty interest groups.It will create further discrimination and possible open homophobia towards peopleI think we should block it because of the emotional damage it will cause to members of the Lgbti community I think it should be blocked because of the harm that could be caused to fellow members of the community especially the youth from all the negative press and advertising that will be released from the campaign I chose that answer because I think the plebiscite will cause more harm than good. Even if the majority vote yes, I assume it can still be blocked and not passed. This would be a disaster. I fear for what sort of message a plebiscite will portray to young people .who identify as LBGTBlock because of harm around the plebiscite. It gives a free ticket to those that already spout hatred against us to spread their hatred even further. I think we should block the plebiscite because the attacks on LGBTI youth will have devastating affects. Already many of our youth suffer from mental health problems. Depression, anxiety disorders, suicide ideation. I worry about who we will lose to suicide during the plebiscite. Our young LGBTI people are a precious resource we should strive to protect.The vitriolic hate mongering that it will open up will be divisive and cause unnecessary distress to many.It is wasteful, the lead up would probably be hurtful to queer people and, if it were to fail, would set back the fight for marriage equality more so than if there had been no plebicite.block it it's a waste of money...we pay these people to do a job let them. We should oppose a plebiscite completely. It's expensive, unnecessary, and it turns our cause into a side-show for the Liberal party. I think we should block the plebiscite for multiple reasons. It will be hurtful to LGBTI people - I am not a robust person and expect to find it hard going. It sets a deplorable precedent about how we as a country deal with human rights issues. It is a dreadful waste of money. Many of those politicians who want the plebiscite also have stated they will not necessarily abide by the result or have stated that the definitely will not. The plebiscite was proposed by those wanting to delay or avoid altogether Australia legislating for marriage equality. We deserve equal rights. The rights of a minority should not be at the whim of the majority. Because I think the government should do their job and have a free vote the plebiscite will only bring hatred and pain to our community.Because it can fail, and it would be disastrous if it faildFor reasons you articulated previously. Very harming to the queer communityWe will get it in a few years with a change of government anyway, and it's not worth the cost or burden on the LGBTI community to go through one when it's no guaranteed we will be given marriage equality anyway via a pkebiscite Block because I am already seeing far right homophobic propaganda sneak into the mainstream. Leaving me genuinely concerned that it will "give permission" for hate speech in the wider populationPoliticians should just do their job and not put us through this hate magnet of a plebiscite Firstly, I believe it is absolutely offensive that the entire country should have to vote on whether or not I should have the same rights as my heterosexual friends and neighbours. Secondly, we are already seeing the damaging consequences of creating a platform, via the plebiscite, for homophobic hate speech. Violently homophobic flyers are already being dropped in letterboxes all over the country, and this is only the beginning. I fear for the safety of myself, my partner, and my friends. I fear for the safety of LGBT youth. And for what? A plebiscite will not even bind the government to action. Turnbull promised us equality, and he has utterly failed to deliver on that promise. I think we should block the plebiscite because of the inherent mental and physical harm that may come to queer people of ALL ages. Rights should not be a matter for public vote.I would be more inclined to support it if it was binding on MPs to vote in accordance with the result. But it is a ridiculous waste of money and the hate speech is already ramping up. I think it will potentially be harmful to mammy particularly young people. I think we should block the plebiscite because our community suffers from enough mental health issues without government funded and approved campaign about why we shouldn't be afforded rights. There is also no legal reason why the plebiscite is needed I think we should block the plebiscite as it is an extreme waste of money and it will give too much air time and voice to people who are against human rights and equality, and will expose our already at risk LGBTIQA* youth to harm. I don't understand why it's up to heterosexual people to decide whether I can marry or not, it's a terrible waste of money, other country's have managed to pass this without a plebiscite Because our human rights should not be subject to a popularity contest, but should instead be recognised by our parliament.It's unnecessary, non-binding, and it's only purpose is to prevent marriage equality and give voice to damaging homophobic hate speech. Our dignity is not a matter of public opinion. I think it should be blocked as we don't need a plebiscite to change the law, it is unnecessary, a waste of money and gives a platform to the very vocal and hateful opponents of marriage equality.I find it incredibly offensive that the public should be able to vote on my equal access to marriage and the legal protections or affords. I think we should block it and find positive ways to bring about a vote in the parliamentI'm concerned about the negative impacts on young LGBTIQ people, and kids of LGBTIQ parents, of a divisive national conversation that enables bigotry and homophobia. Block it. I didn't get to decided who others shouod or should not marry. This is a basic human rights issue The plebiscite is damaging to people emotional state. The human cost of the plebiscite is too great, especially when there are already the votes ready in parliament.It is a scam: Non binding, no change in constitution needed, will cost half a billion, and a megaphone for the haters.It's a waste of money, we can't choose the conditions/questions etc... This should be a lobby for human rights! Where was my plebes cite to buy those submarine?The plebiscite costs money, costs our integrity, and will cost young people's lives. Why is there a need for a Plebiscite, and to spend so much of our Taxes on what Mr Turnbull and the Politicians can do from within Parliament.The plebiscite should be blocked because it will be rigged against the LGBTI community, and a loss would be devastating and likely set marriage equality back by a decade or more in this country.Lived through enough hate not asking for more It should be passed in parliament with no hurtful risk to the community We've had plenty of polls - and this is just another one. We know the change has to take place in Parliament, so they should just do their jobs. We should block it due to the hatred that will come out of it from the extreme anti same sex marriage groups. It will harm our community and affect young people who may be questioning their sexuality.wasting money, funding the argument against legitimising homophobic slurs, fueling rhetoric and religious groups who already get tax free advantages. Block it as the right of the minority should never be decided on by the majority. It will be very damaging for the community and if it fails the ramifications will be worse.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of money that would be much better spent on education, health and welfare.It is devisive, see arguments around safe schools - it will lead to hatred and violence and it's a big fat waste of moneyHate speech will escalate. The lgbti community is already at risk, a plebiscite will ramp that right up. Our suicide rate is way higher than the straight community already. We should block it because people's rights shouldn't have to be voted on by the public at a huge expense. The plebiscite is not necessary. Marriage Equality can be enacted by Parliament. The effect of the AGAINST campaign is going to be quite devastating to the lives of LGBTQ people and children.Because it will be a nasty battleI think we should block the plebiscite because it will be a big waste of money and wont even affect the governments decision when it gets vited inside the house of reps.I don't want to hear hateful discussions on the issue as it could lead to many people including myself to feel worthless and not accepted by society. It is a waste of money to have a plebacite only to have the issue rejected by the religious and conservative majority in parliament regardless of what the Australian people have to say.I think the plebiscite is an abdication of parliamentary responsibility, it is not necessary to change the law. The point of representative democracy is to govern for the whole. While the views of the majority must be respected, they should not be legitimized should they infringe upon the tenets of our liberal democracy, such as equality before the law.The Plebiscite should be blocked as it is a waste of money and will do a lot of harm to the LGBTIQ community.Just get on with issues that run the countrywe should block it because it is a huge waste of moneyI don't feel that tax payer money should not be spent on a demeaning and expensive process. We are very aware of Australians support for reform which could be passed by both houses of parliament without any cost or hateful campaign. Waste of money and the result wont bind anywayBeing that the Plebiscite is not binding and even if passed the Government could reject the outcome. If the Plebicite was binding then I'd reconsider my response.I think we should block the plebiscite because I don't trust the Turnbull government to follow through with legislation in the event of majority support. I think we should block because while the inevitable abuse won't affect me, it will affect vulnerable people - and it is likely the far right faction of the Liberals will adjust the wording of the bill and the process to make it something ro avoid.Divisive. I don't believe in marriage. It's an outdated institution, traditionally a means of control of women. The lgbt community does not need to emulate straight people. The divorce rate proves marriage is a farce. If two people truly love each other, they don't need to be told how they live. The govt and religion need to be separated and mind their own business.It's going to be more harmful to the LGBTIQ community and will cost our country money for something that can't actually make a difference, our government needs to grow up and just make marriage legal in the senett with out having to hold a plebiscite.It is a costly process that is not binding and will potentially open up an unhealthy dialogue that could harm LGTBI persons. I think the plebiscite must be blocked due to the harm and hate it could create to the community and we already have terrible suicide rates in the community and opening up the country to a plebiscite could be incredibly harmful! The plebiscite is so in necessary and parliament should just vote with all MP's being able to have a free voteBlock because it will harm young GLBTI people, also because Human Rights should not be put to an opinion pollWE SHOULD BLOCK THE PLEBICYTE BECAUSE LGBTI PEOPLE FACE ENOUGH HOMOPHOBIA, PREJUDICE AND ABUSE WITHOUT a licence for homophobes to express their discriminatory and bigoted views in a public forum. I am concerned that it will be a platform for homophobic bigoted views to be expeessed and I don't want my children or myself , partner friends family and community exposed to thus. Furthermore I am incensed at tge idea that otger people get an opinion on what should just be allowing human rights. A total waste of money as it is clear individual politicians will vote as they choose, not as their electorate indicates necessarily.Because it's not necessary and I find it offensive if the whole nation gets to vote on my rights. We don't even have plebiscites on really major decisions like going to war and invading other countries (see: Iraq) so why would we need one about equal relationship recognition?I think we should block the plebiscite because it is unnecessary and a waste of money. Our rights should not be decided by the rest of the country, these are rights that we should have no matter who says it is wrong or right. Who is to decide that some people have more rights over others just because of how they were born. It is discrimination and a disgrace. It's wasteful to spend millions on a plebiscite which will not necessarily lead to marriage equality anyway. A government serious on achieving marriage equality would introduce a bill without trivialising the rights of lgbt people and treating equality as something that can be debated upon and only granted if the wider population believes it should. I think we should block the plebiscite, for it is unnecessary. We could have a conscience vote in the parliament by MPs who are supposed to represent their electorates, but instead they are palming off the vote for Australia to vote on with their consciences. In addition, some MPs and senators have stated publicly that they would not vote yes to a marriage equality bill if Australia voted yes, which makes the plebiscite seemingly a waste of time.I think we should block the plebiscite because we already know the majority of Australians support Marriage Equality so spend the money on something worthwhile like providing more accomidation for the homeless or safe houses for victims of domestic violence. How about education in schools on lgbt issues which conside with sex ed. The government needs to realise it is not their money, it is ours, as in the tax payer, so it isn't there's to be spending on crap we don't need.I don't think it is fair or democratic for a majority to vote on whether to 'allow' rights to a minority. It is humiliating and will give voice to bigots.Unnecessary waste of moneyIm scared of the discrimination that will happen prior to to voting... its already happening n it wont be safe for us as a community to be anywhere...for example my partner was abused on train for been gay... i expect thia will only get worse.BECAUSE JOHN HOWARD DIDN'T NEED ONE I'm concerned our child will be subjected to the debates about whether our family is as worthy as other families. I think it is damaging to give the bag stove side a public platform. It is a human rights issue that should not be open to debate. I think we should block the plebiscite because it gives the 'no' campaign too much validity "to be heard", which is detrimental to young queer kids who are having enough trouble and mental health issues on their own. We already know how the majority of Australians feel about marriage equality, why waste this money just to prove what we already know???Because its a huge waste of money and also how do we know what conditions will be put forward.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a huge waste of money and even if it has a positive outcome, there's no guarantee it will be passed into legislation.My feelings are so strongly against the whole idea of a non-binding and unnecessary plebiscite that I would say to block it. However if this means having to wait another 3 years I think that's unacceptable also, so I'm not 100% committed to that response. I'm fearful of a plebiscite and the wording if it does happen needs to be right.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is going to be divisive, dangerous, hateful, and in the end a total waste of money that accounts to an opinion poll. It is not binding on MPs and so this becomes a ridiculous proposal. I am literally worried every day about what will be unleashed from groups like the Australian Christian Lobby during a long plebiscite campaign, given already the nature of how anxious I've been during this election campaign. I think we should block any move toward a plebiscite however we can. It is not incumbent on the oppressed to calmly barter for acceptance with their oppressors. It is far too much to ask of people, that they acquiesce to the politicisation of their private lives and desires in their everyday communities - as though this were an arms-length campaign from ideology. We are entitled to be enraged by the idea of a plebiscite. We are entitled to rail against it and reject its results and reject the equity of homophobic concerns and LGBTIQ aspirations which it implies. How we win equality matters. It is not for my friends, my family, my tormentors and 18 million strangers to give or deny. Consider: whatever the result of the plebiscite, it will be illegitimate. Not just because it has no legal force, but because the opinions of the Australian public ought to be irrelevant to the legal equality of two people. I fear that in pandering to middle Australia, the LGBTIQ community will abandon some of its most vulnerable members - attempting to be non-threatening and 'normal' in the eyes of the nation. I also fear that the platform a plebiscite will give to the ACL will assist their campaign to constrain Safe Schools, expand religious exemptions to anti-discrimination law, and normalise the narrative that to be contradicted is to be denied free speech. All of which will make other, more substantive changes for the community far more difficult.Will stir up unnecessary hate speech. The government needs to legislate for the people as they were elected to do. Its wasteful.I think we should block the plebiscite as it will not only be ab excuse for conservatives to attack LGTIBIQA people, but I don't think these hate filled people should have the right to vote for my rights. That's why we have a Government and that Government should pass it as a law, not spend 160 million dollars on a "maybe".We should block the plebiscite purely on the basis of economics. We will eventually win the right to marry whomever we chose however, we will never recoup the millions spent on this distastive tool which has no legal bearing anyway. Spend the money where it is needed, health, education, feeding the needy, I can wait.We should be equal legally and the govt should pass legislation accordingly.It's wasteful, hurtful and divisive.It will legitimise hateful discrimination in the political discourse. This is about equality. Nobody should get a say in the private lives of others.Because it is a flagrant waste of taxpayers money and I should be afforded the rights of other Australians who are permitted to marry under Australian law. This should be legislation and legislated within parliament, not opened up to a popular vote. My human rights should not be decided by the entire population of this country. To be denied this right is pure discrimination. Waste of money. Should be decided by Parliament lady conscience vote We should not encourage the idea in our society that the rights of a minority group should be decided by the majority. We should demand our government ensures the equality of every Australian before the law.Waste of money and potentially harmful to the lgbtq community I don't think it's something our community should have to go through. I would rather wait - less damage in the long term.The "free speech" aka hate being displayed towards the Muslim community is just a taste of what the LGBTI community will endure. Resulting in further mental health issues in our community The plebiscite should be blocked as it is a waste of money when it could be passed in parliament without a plebiscite. Also I cannot begin to imagine the negativity that can come out of a plebiscite, it's time to just pass marriage equality without negativity.The proposed cost of the plebiscite is $160 million Imagine what tgat money could be spent on Hospital, nurses, education, mental health....not a vote tgat will mean nothing on the end becasue it can be vetoed by government if they dont loke what public saysA popular vote on human rights & discrimination is abhorrent. The parliament will need to vote anyway. It would cost lives.It's wrong to vote on whether some of us should be discriminated against I think we should block the plebiscite and spend the money on youth suicide prevention & educating right wing religious people how discrimination weakens societies. We already know the majority of Australians are in favor or don't give a [Expletive].I chose to block the plebiscite because I don't believe it is worth the risk to the LGBTIQ community. It is not worth the risk of hatred and suicide etc.I think that the government should of already heard the public and have the balls to make the decision in Parliament and spend the money elsewhere as there is no guarantee at the end of the day that they will even pass it. Keep up the noise people! !!!I think we should block it, engaging is accepting the unacceptable.There is no need for it. The Marriage Act can be changed by Parliament. It is a waste of money which could be spent on better things which won't cause harm. It shouldn't be necessaryIt's impossible to see how a free vote can be denied for another three years. Because it is a waste of money and there is no guarantee we will have marriage equality at the end.Because of the homophobic abuse that is bound to happen.The money is better spent elsewhere and I feel like the campaigning will be very harmful to the more vulnerable of our community.A plebiscite will bring homophobia out into the open even more so than already is. Public debate on this topic is not only unnecessary but downright insulting as its nobodies business who people choose to marry. However, public debate will very negatively impact on the mental health of lgbtqia+ young people. block the plebiscite, get politicians to do their jobs and pass marraige equality rather than wasting money on a vote that many of them have said they'll ignore anyway. I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a human right to be able to marry.Marriage equality is inevitable, thanks to the hard work,fighting and campaigning of our community! So while I'm not in a rush to get married, I know when I want to it will be a reality I fear for the younger people only starting to realize their sexual identity that already encounter horrible prejudice and subliminal hate in Australian culture. I view the plebiscite as a government sponsored hate campaign, a delay tool and a political chess piece. To the government these young kids are merely the pawns, a small minority easily sacrificed for their own agenda I feel for the people that may not have the time to wait to marry but I worry more about the kids who may end up having thier time cut shortExpensive and overall harmful to the communityI think we should block the plebiscite as it gives a legitimate voice to the opponents which couls endanger vulnerable members of the community. It is the parliaments job to legislate and as the Howard government proven the marriage act can be changed. It is a human rights issue not a plebiscite.I don't want to see a lot of lives ruined because they can't come out due to the plebiscite trekking them they are worthless humans and the hate in people will be terrible. I think we should block the plebiscite if possible because there is no guarantee that it will bring about marriage equality any earlier. (The LNP has not committed to a timeframe. The plebiscite is a delaying tactic and it is likely to be followed by further delaying tactics.) Who says the current government will last 3 years? However, if it happens, we MUST win it. I think we should block the plebiscite because the hate speech has already started and will only get worse. It's not binding, which means it's pointlessThey changed the law without a plebiscite so chafe it again I am in a position where I counsel LGBTIQ people. Too many of them already suffer homophobic insults, rejection and subsequent poor self image. This often results in self-harm and potentially lead to suicides. The yes-no campaign leading up to the proposed plebiscite will unleash a stream of hate that will only lead to more harm, injuries and deaths.Popular vote on a human rights & discrimination issue is an obscene idea! Grossly irresponsible & ignorant. Plus, it would harm people & our society & reputation.I would rather wait for real equality than expose my 3 young kids to a hate campaign about their families. The hate campaign by the ACL etc already is having a negative impact on my 9,8 and 6yo kids. I do not want a full on, federally funded hate campaign that we all know is going to be aimed at children. It is wrong. It is not a price I am willing to pay to get marriage equality.It will hurt a lot of people and cause a lot of prejudices.I think we should block it because it is a massive waste of money and the harm it will do to our community with the hate it will bring upon us is not needed. Why should I have to ask 18 million people to validate my marriage? We should block because of the community division it will cause; because of the cost to the LGBTIQ community's health and wellbeing but also to the entire Australian community in terms of demand and budget impact on the nation's health system.It is not binding; and as such is an expensive waste of public funds. It can already be dealt with in parliament; finally no human right should be a matter of public opinion. I should not for example be able to vote on whether slavery is or isn't acceptable, it simply isn't. Full stop.I do not want my children to be a target of a campaign,any form of a campaign.can anyone involved here imagine if their children to be subjected to debates about whether their families are real or not? can we all take a moment and think about this? we all know that the NO side will target children as an argument. please do not subject our children to torture, do not harm our families.I think we should block it because of the negative effects it will have on my children's perception of their selves and their family. We are a happy family and they feel normal compared to their peers. A plebiscite campaign can only adversely affect them by making them question their own worth and whether or not their family is welcome in society. Also it is unnecessary. This is simply a tool by those who oppose equal marriage to block reform, or at least do as much damage as possible to our community in the process. I'd prefer to wait another 3 years. We've waited this long anyhow. We should block the plebiscite because the harm done in debating the validity of our relationships, our families and our existence is greater than the harm done by waiting for a free vote. The harm that it will cause my children and family is not worth the potential to be married. The concept of the majority voting on a minority's rights is appalling and it is highly offensive, even if it passed with 100% approval, it creates the wrong message.We should block the plebiscite as it is a waste of money as a lot of the representatives have said they will vote no regardless of the outcome in their community. Our children and us deserve better than The plebiscite is going to give the extremist church nuts a voice that will damage the hearts of our community with ill-informed information and hate being spread throughout the Country. The Church does not own Marriage, they stole Marriage to make money, the Church is just a greedy corporation, the richest in the world and they should have a much lesser say in our laws and government than they do. They should pay taxes and be treated like any other business that doesn't have the joy of falling under the guise of a Church. Same Sex Marriage should just "be" not having it is blatant discrimination. There is a huge amount of people in our community who just don't care either way about Same Sex Marriage because it doesn't effect them or their families and if put to a vote they will likely vote "NO" even though they don't really care, so unless there's a "I don't care" vote it's not going to be a very good vote. I say we wait for a better government who can do this the right way and spend the $160,000,000 on something to benefit all of the community. We've been treated like second-rate citizens in this country for this long, what's another 3 years! :(We should block it because people should not be allowed to vote against minoritiesBecause the debate for a basic human right should be unnecessary, derisive and potentially harmful to GLTBQI individuals and their families. To dangerous my mental and physical health of myself and others. I think we should try to block it because of damage divisive debate can do to our communities and risk that even if we win MPs will not respect outcome in vote. But if inevitable we must fight to win. Waste of money. Also will allow for hurtful and damaging anti gay/equality propaganda I think we should block it as there is enough descrimination & it will open up the flood gates for anti- gay marriage groups to be more public with their bigotry. This will affect the children of same sex parents and the whole lgbti community. There is already enough bullying and negative talk affecting peoples mental health.Plebiscite is unnecessary costly and is likely to elicit campaigns that target my family It will divide the nation. To marry someone is supposed to be my right as a person. Why a group of politicians or a group of people has to have anything to do with my right to marry someone ???Basic human rights should never be voted on by the majority. I believe a plebiscite would create division and allow an anti gay platform that could potentially cause more harm than good. Even if a plebiscite had overwhelming support for marriage equality it still sends a negative message to those people that are in the ILGBT community. The message at the moment is loud and clear. People of religion do not accept the ILGBT community. Someone has to take the high road. I would rather act out of love and prevent further harm to our community by saying no to a plebiscite now. So that in the future marriage equality will be made peaceably, without harm and done in such a way that the ILGBT community is included and supported as equals. Its about equality. Hate and harm to lgbtiq people and their allies/families/friends.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will cause so much harm to families like mine because of all the months of media attention it will bring and the bad media from the conservatives. Why should some redneck in regional australia decide if i can marry the man i have been with for 20 years? They should not be able to decide if I should be able to marry. It's a human right and should be voted in the party room.I don't want my kids exposed to the hate campaign that will be ramped up by the Christan Lobby - saying my family is disgusting and we are wrong......I think we should wait because I am worried about the negative arguments and how they will effect my kidsThe hate from the right is worse than getting legal marriage I believe that we should block the plebiscite because it will be costly, it will give a platform to the right-winged conservatives to slander the LGBTIQ community- causing severe stress and harm to all LGBTIQ people and their families and even if the plebiscite was to go in favour of Marriage Equality for all Australians there is a chance that the government will not change the law and it will all be for nothing. It is more than clear by this point that the majority of Australians support marriage equality, and all measures to delay or prevent it from happening subvert core democratic values that this nation was built on. The plebiscite is not good enough. Minority values should never be put to a public vote, equality is not achieved by popularity contest.A conscience vote is more appropriate and a plebiscite is a shocking waste of tax payer moneyWe should block the plebiscite because the divisive lead-up and derogatory messages out out about the LGBTI community will harm the children in Rainbow families and make them feel distressed, ashamed and potentially alienated. I think we should block the plebiscite because it will not definitely give the desired outcome even if the result is that a majority support changing the law to allow us to marry. Also I do not want my 5 year old son to be exposed to the negativity and hate that the opposing side will broadcast in the lead up to a plebiscite. I also think a plebiscite will negatively impact on young closeted LGBT people (their mental health and their physical safety if they out themselves at the time)An enormous waste of money when they continually tell us the country has no money to spend. It is well and truly proven time and time again that the vast majority of Australians already support Marriage Equality. Not to mention all the hate and [Expletive] church groups will spew.It is absolutely clear the plebiscite will unleash a torrent of abuse against our community in general, but even more importantly, at our children. I do not want my family put through the hatred that will come with a plebiscite. I would rather wait another 3 years for parliament to pass the legislation appropriately. I am also concern about the precedent having a plebiscite would set, in addition to the waste of $ and having a State funded opinion poll on such a social justice issue. I think we should block it because it is too risky to the mental health of vulnerable queer people. Particularly youth. If a plebecite fails, it will cause significant harm to the community.Wrong is wrongThe 'No" side will degrading and insulting, no my child and the young people of the LGBTIQ community. Most of all wast of money, on what is basically a survey. We have been subject to blatant hate for as long as Christianity has been a thing. We dont need any more time to relive the death threats and the subjugation of centuries past. We are over that era, done with it. And as a tax-paying citizen, we could be putting our money towards something that counts instead of just throwing it away. Block it because it is unnecessary, expensive and not binding. But mostly because I have three kids and they will be the focus of the 'no' campaign. I am extremely fearful of the effect it could have on their mental health and general well-being. I think the plebiscite is unnecessary. It will cost millions and even if the majority of Australians vite yes it doesn't mean the politicians will take that on board. Our elected politicians have the power to vote for same sex marriage already. I also think the plebiscite will bring a lot of haters out if the woodwork and give them a platform in which to make bigotry comments which can be harmful to young people and the children in same sex families.Because it could just be passed as law by the government. Because it provides an opportunity for the lives of queer people to be put up for public debate and scrutiny and affect peoples mental health. It provides a platform for hate speech dressed up as valid debate.Rights for minority groups are not subject to popularity contests. We either have equality in this country or we don't We should block the plebiscite because human rights should never be subject to popular opinion; especially when the "debate" will result in the vilification of LGBTIQ people causing definite harm.I believe we should block it as it will cause harm to the communityBlock it. It's cheaper just to legislate in favour. I believe the plebiscite will provide a platform for those opposed to same sex marriage which will be detrimental to the community particularly children. Programs like Q&A will end up having speakers from 'both sides'. I don't think human rights should be subject to plebiscite. There should be a free vote, not a plebesite We should block it, because the mobilisation and organisation of far-right-wingers that will result from their campaign of hatred will not end with the plebiscite. The cruelest people of our society will unite on this issue, and then forever have their own union of psychopaths that they will use to attack us all day, every day, forever.I think we should block the Plebiscite, my human rights should not be the subject of a costly non-binding opinion poll. John Howard petulantly changed the Marriage Act in 2004 to explicitly prevent Marriage Equality, and did so without benefit of a Plebiscite. We SHOULD undo Howard's cowardly vandalism by the same process - Parliament should DO IT's JOB. Save the cost, save a divisive debate, save the dignity of GLBTQI+ (G.A.Y.) Australians.Opening up a great big platform for haters... no thanksI think we should block the plebiscite because it will be too painful for LGBTIQ people to live through.The plebiscite will be an expensive and wasteful effort intended simply to spread hatred. A plebiscite is unnecessary for a vote in Parliament.I think it should be blocked because a negative vote will set equality back drastically, because it is a waste of funds better put into health care, and the "right" thing to do would be for the government to legislate equalityI am really concerned about the potential damage to the LGBTIQ community if the plebiscite is held.Block it because it holds no actual power. The government is not required to act on the results. It is also a waste of resources. I believe it is inevitable we will have marriage equality some day. I believe the plebiscite should be blocked because it is an incredible waste of resources and opens up a platform for the spread of misinformation, hate speech and societal division.I think we should block the plebiscite because There is no need for it, as it is a change in legislation and no in the constitution; wasted money; it does not bound so still it has to pass through the upper house. The no campaign will be hateful and will irreparably damage society's attitude towards us if we don't win.I think we should block the plebiscite because the discussion about it and the views that have been already expressed by those opposing marriage equality are very harmful and hateful towards our same-sex family. I greatly fear for the safety and wellbeing of my children and what they might be subjected to or exposed to during such unnecessary plebiscite debate!!!! I'd even consider taking my family and young children out of the country while the debate is taking place to keep them away from hatred, ignorance and abuse which the plebiscite may lead to. I don't think we need it we should just legalise now our children deserve for their parents marriage to b recognised It is a huge amount of money to spend on something that could be easily decided in parliament, and an overwhelming vote of support for marriage equality via plebiscite still does not compel conservative politicians to support it. I'm also deeply concerned about the negative impact of homophobic campaign groups will have on young people in the LGBTIQ community It is hard E bough already for members of the LGBTIQ community to deal with being seen as 'other' within the broader community but to provide a forum where people can voice homophobic and transphobic opinions in the run up to a plebiscite is like condoning attitudes that are extremely harmful to many individuals. The government should not allow this to happen when there are laws prohibiting homophobia or transphobia - they would be filthy of discriminatory behaviour by allowing the plebiscite process.Having a plebiscite will unleash the vitriolic attack dogs of the ACL et alMy reasons are the cost. The fact it is an opinion poll which of the majority is yes the current government doesn't have to do anything. Plus it's as simple as I deserve my rights to marry without this I think we should block the plebiscite because polls have already indicated the support for marriage equality, a plebiscite is a waste of money and resources. A plebiscite would also give anti marriage equality and far right groups a platform to promote anti lgbt sentiment, which we just don't need more of.We don't want to waste the money and have to put up with the vile comments that will be madeI fundamentally oppose the fact that this should go to a plebiscite. It should go to parliament as proposed legislation to be voted on just as any other legislation. Besides its non binding and Trumbull has said he will give Libs a conscience Vite anyway. What a waste of time and money. Not to mention the ridiculous things that will be said about us and our families.It will have a major detrimental emotional affect on my family I think we should block the plebiscite because it's a waste of tax payers money and the result doesn't dictate the government's response following it anyway. I'm also very concerned about the consequences ( negative impact on mental health, increased exposure to discriminatory views) on LGBTIQ people and the families during the lead up to and revelation of the results of a plebiscite I don't want the hate campaign. Parliament should just vote and pass it.A horrible waste of money for something that should not be a problem. I do not want to give a platform to people who will turn this into a debate about whether society wants the children of gay and lesbian people. For some weird reason this is exactly what happens every time they start to have their say. My children are 11 and 8 and it is hard enough as it is being the 'gay mums' kids in their suburban school. It would be good if the legislation was passed, but I do not want the debate as it will injury my kids's sense of being wanted in societyHuman rights issues should not be voted on and it's a waste of money A plebiscite is not binding and was not needed to change the law under Howard. Considering the amount of intense hate and stigma that we have had to deal with lately with the inquiry into safer schools and the affects that has had...I don't want to see bigots given another platform to spew their hate. If the government wanted to make decisions via popular vote do it for every decision. Or even better, take a responsible approach, consider the evidence, consult with key stake holders (ie lgbtq community) and make a sensible and informed decision. We don't need it. This can be passed under normal law. A plebiscite would be an insane waste of money and cause more division in the community. This would allow bigots to determine the details of my relationship and give them permission to deny it. This is a fundamental right to equality which is being denied. I think we should block the plebiscite because I have serious concerns for the health and well being of LGBTIQ people, particularly, but not only, young people. I feel like it will open up the opportunity for 'bigoted', homo/trans/bi phobic rhetoric to gain an even louder, more abusive, insulting voice, causing significant and expensive harm to the LGBTIQ community and their family and friends. As a visible member of the transgender community I believe the plebiscite will be used by homo/bi/transpobic bigots to spread hate which will have a direct impact on my safety. I have experienced verbal and physical harassment in the recent past as a direct result of hate speech in the media and link it to an anti safe schools television debate the night before. Visible trans, gender non conforming and queer people will be most at risk if the ACL is given a fee for all platform. Its easy to say yes to the plebicite if your not at risk of experiencing violence.As much as I would dearly love to marry my partner, I think a plebiscite is unnecessary. I wouldn't want to see any harm come to others and the money can be more effeciently spent on schooling, hospitals etc.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will allow hate speech, affect LGBTI+ people and their families, as well as and especially the young people. It will cost a stupid amount of money, there is no point!It's waste of moneyWaste of money if the [Expletive] in government won't honour the outcome if it is yes.I think we should block the plebiscite as it means ugly hateful speach against my family,For something that should be dealt with by parliament, and not a majority voting on a minority's rights.Because the gay community has been fighting to uphold their rights and have equal rights. We have two children and under the laws would love to be recognized under he Australian laws. I have been bashed, loved, hurt and embraced for being gay. Just want the best for our children and our relationship Block because the hate that will show will most seriously affect young people and could even shift back many of the gains which have been made re tolerance and acceptance, even celebrating of gender and sexuality diversity. Non binding, wasteful and needs to be voted on anyway. We need a Parliament who just do their actual job and get on with passing legislation. I think we should block the plebicite as it is unnecessary,expensive and destructive. It will be used by the socially conservative right as an excuse to promote fear and hatred. If we get ayes it will be non binding and will be ignored by the gov and if we get a no it will be a decade before we can try againIt's a waste of money and the politicians should just do the job they are paid for and change the law. I don't want to have slander spread about us like what is happening in the US with the bathroom bills- implying that all trans people are sexual predators. I don't want to have to walk past billboards saying marriage equality will be the death of families and will lead to bestiality- Christian political parties are already letterbox dropping flyers full of hateful mis-information and it will only get worse. The psychological damage to those vulnerable in our rainbow community and the vitriol from the extreme right. I don't deserve to hear their [Expletive]. There are enough ways that mysogynist, bigoted [Expletive] said can make themselves heard. Het, cis, white guys get all the microphones.I think we should block the plebiscite because it gives angry fringe members of a powerful majority a soapbox to use to hurt our most vulnerable members. Marriage equality is important, it's our right and we know that having it improves the mental health of queer people, but we also know that young and questioning members of our community are more at risk than many people old enough and secure enough to be thinking about marriage. Young people trying to come to terms with their identities, struggling to accept themselves and cope with school and life, do not need powerful wealthy leaders in society telling them that they are wrong and do not deserve human rights or basic human decency. These are people who have been proven time and time again to be at high risk of mental illness and suicide, and we have to stand up for them and protect them. As sad as it is, it is worth forgoing our right to equal marriage, if it protects the young and vulnerable members of our society. It is worth holding off until we can all be validated equally. And so it is not worth giving these bigots an opportunity to attack us.It is a waste of money and time and serves only to give fundamentalists a pulpit for hate speechBlock it for the very reason listed in the selection . Howard did a deceitful act in parliament and it can be changed again.the plebiscite should be blocked because it gives a platform to hateful bigotry from people in a privileged and powerful majority, and acts under a guise of 'helping the lgbt+' when in fact will do nothing but cause hurt and foster hate and discriminatory legislation and behavioursThe plebiscite is an expensive and damaging delay tactic. It is non-binding and therefore transparently political. John Howard didn't need a plebiscite to change the marriage act to deliberately exclude same sex couples so why should we need one to change it again?the plebiscite will be enormously expensive and divisive, causing unnecessary harm to GLBTIQ people and wasting money that would be better used for other thingsI think we should block the plebiscite because the risk of harm and hate to our community is too high and I don't think that the outcome is more important than the people in the community who may be harmed as we try to get equality.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a huge amount of money spent when our government is providing cuts to so many vital areas.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will be divisive, fuel antagonism towards gender and sexuality diverse people and needlessly waste hundreds of millions of dollars The fact that the government has zero legal requirement to accept the outcome of the plebiscite renders it entirely pointless. All that it would do is allow anti-gay conservatives a clear platform to spread further hate, extremism and harm; while costing Australia millions better spent supporting those in need.I think we should block the plebiscite as the high court has already found that the definition of marriage in the constitution includes same sex unions. The federal parliament already has the power to enact marriage equality. We already know via surveys that Australians support marriage equality. A plebiscite is a huge waste of money and will only give anti gay campaigners a bigger stage. A plebiscite will be more harm than good.Because the cost will become an issue pointed at the community who currently have equal rights under common law. Marriage equality is a human right and should be applied as a Parlimentary law commited by government under the will of the people who elected them.Block the plebiscite because even if it passes and is accepted the government can still refuse to enforce it. It opens up a negative backlash from people who are against equality in Australia. It is not for the public to decide how we can be treated equally. I think we should block the plebiscite because its divisive and unnecessary. Its a waste of money and most Australians are already supportive of marriage equality. We have already seen such ugliness in the election campaign around safe schools and marriage equality - the last thing LGBTI Australians need is to have their worth further debated and degraded by supposed representatives of Australians I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of money, will result in harmful debate by giving a platform for hate speech and we shod not be voting on a question of human rights and equality The majority should not be voting via a $160M+ opinion poll on the rights of a minority. Equality can be achieved via a free vote by our parliament. The damage the No campaign will affect on the LGBTQI community will ripple on for years to come and I don't believe we will really ever unite the general population after ab Us and Them theme emerges during the campaign. Too harmful. Not good for equality to have bigots speak in the media. Divisive. Hurtful.There was no definition of marriage in Australian federal legislation that specified which sexes could marry. But in 2004, then-prime minister John Howard introduced legislation banning same-sex marriage. There was not a plebiscite then it was passed in the House of Representatives and senate We don't need a billion dollar opinion poll. Public opinion is clear. Politicians already have the power to change things so they should.Because the high court recognises our relationship as equal. Its a waste of our tax payers money and it it simple we have an equal right to marry. I do everything right by the law and as an australian citizen. Please pay respect to me as an individual and other me to have the same rights as everyone elseI think we should block the plebiscite because the community should not decided if I deserve a basic human right to freedom of choice. The high high court in 2013 found that the definition of marriage includes same sex unions....so why has the law still not yet been amended to reflect this?????The negative and poisonous media will hurt my family and all LGBTIQ people. We have enough hatred and poison coming at us anyway, without the media getting into a mudslinging match Please protect our family. My son needa to feel safe accepted and NORMAL!!Waste of money. Just vote yes alreadyWe should block the plebiscite because it is wasteful of money. Damaging for LGBTIQ ppl/families, especially children & teensAustralia has many diverse cultures living therein and if a plebiscite were to take place they may not be open at all to the topic of the rights of gay people. The politicians are elected to represent the wishes of the people and are answerable to them. Let them stand up and be counted. The expense of having a plebiscite is not justified.Block because it will give the government a means to appease the right wing of the party and the plebiscite has been attempted and then allow them to put it to a free voteA total waste of time and money!!! We should wait because it's inevitable that it will happen so let'S be patient ITT We should block it so young queers don't have to experience the hate that will come from the debateThe plebiscite is wrong because it's a political fix for a Conservative administration to kick the can down the road for as long as possible and avoid taking responsibility for a decision, not a reasonable response to a call for reform. It is wildly inappropriate to subject the civil rights of a minority to a popular vote. I think the public debate prior to a vote will be destructive to a lot of people in the LBGTQ community.I'm really concerned about the effect of the plebiscite on young people. Already we've seen the LGBTI community be dragged through the mud by conservative politicians, this creates a really unsafe atmosphere in schools. I run an anti-bullying organisation (Identifying Information Redacted) and we hear everyday the way that these conversations are negatively impacting young LGBTI people who quite simply don't feel safe being themselves.The reasons given above - unnecessary, wasteful, potentially harmful I think we should blovk the plebiscite because it's a waste of resources so the government don't have to be responsible for a potentially unpopular decision, it's just a wasteful scapegoat.Block the plebiscite, it is a waste of money for all taxpayers, even though I want to marry my partner of 8 years, we can wait for marriage equality. Pls spend the 180 million on health.The majority of Australians do not seek for plebiscite, but you can have a plebiscite on whether to have a plebiscite or not - the story never ends! in a democracy there are no plebiscites because we give MP the power to decide - they should then decide, based on majority. The intial Howard change to the marriage act was made without a plebescite - it is hypocritical, harmful, wasteful and primarily serving the right wing to hold a plebescite. I think we should block the plebiscite because I would rather see marriage equality pushed back a few more years than face the potential torrent of abuse and discrimination that I believe the plebiscite will surely bring. I do not believe that those bringing about the plebiscite are genuinely interested in forced divorce and as such this -in my opinion- far more pressing issue can be tackled separately. I think we should block it because the campaigning and rhetoric against marriage equality will be too damaging, especially for young queers, regional queers, and those not involved and enveloped in community support. While I want marriage equality, that price is too high, and it will be paid by the most vulnerable, the most disconnected members of our queer familiesI'm not in favour of more resources being directed towards gay marriage from the government or from the community when there are so many other pressing issues affecting my communities. Youth mental health services, trans employment difficulties/homelessness, etc etc.Force the liberals to take responsibility for voting on ME in parliament I think it is a wast of money and it will cause harm to the LGBTIQ community through negative campaigning by the opponents to marriage equality.Block. The parliament has the power to vote on the Marraige Act and should do so now. A plebiscite is a waste of money for a non-binding vote. Human rights should not be determined by the majority. Human rights should be addressed by the parliament. It's an egregious and unnecessary political manipulation which will damage our community more than waiting a few years. It's already been established MPs won't honour a positive outcome, so it's pointless from a legislative point of view. More importantly, we are already experiencing horrible attacks, vilification and degrading lies oppressing our families and identities, that is just going to get worse if the plebiscite goes ahead, and the equal rights or a minority should not be up for a public vote.I think the potential harm to the LGBTIQ community may outweigh the likelihood of success. I would like to see marriage equality passed in a way that is not so exorbitantly expensive or potentially damaging. It's outrageous to vote on a human rights issueI think it will be harmful for our children who will see our family being openly discriminated against They know what Aust thinks already. The majority accepts gay marriage and they should've just passed it without a plebiscite The Libs will use it to stop the voteIt should not be allowed to go ahead. The debate it will foster, generate and give credibility to all extreme views in the name of freedom of speech will be exceedingly damaging to young isolated individuals. We should not support the notion that a particular group within society can have their rights to inclusion voted upon by the whole. Therefore we should not support the plebiscite no matter what its wording.I think the plebiscite should be blocked because the hate campaign that will ensue as part of the so-called balanced debate about my right, my mothers' right, aunts' right, my best friend's right to marry will be more harmful than waiting.i think it should be blocked, as it's a waste of money, it doesn't guarantee even if it gets up that it'll get passed. We should be fighting for equal rights, marriage equality is just one of those rights, not the only one that is squashed under the current legal and economic system. I am concerned that an anti plebiscite, i.e. anti same sex marriage, campaign would harm my children.I think we should block it because any plebiscite will unleash backlash against the community and its unnecessarily expensive.I think the plebe site is a waste of moneyI can't keep going through anti gay mental health safety issues over an issue that hasn't blown up the world in other countries but we seem to keep wanting to display that we live in the past as we are stereotyped as unintelligent farmers by European friends I have I think we should block the plebiscite because the anti marriage equality side will hurt people with their campaign messages. I worry about the plebiscite will unleash a barrage of harmful hate-speech - purely for political reasons. I don't want to subject myself or our rainbow families to this kind of antagonism. Once there is misinformation and slander against the LGBTQ community, it is impossible to "unsay" these words, even if we win the plebiscite. Most of the impetus for the campaign will come from the American Christian Right who have already lost the battle in their own country. I don't want to be part of a proxy battle in the culture wars.A plebiscite will create so much hate propaganda towards our community, and towards our kids. We don't need a plebiscite - society wants the change. The issue is that even if they hold the plebiscite, the liberal government has already indicated they won't force their politicians to accept the result. What is the point og having a plebiscite, and exposing our families to such hatred if the result won't even have to be followed. No more govt sanctioned biggotory thanksI think a plebiscite is unnecessary and a huge waste of money. It will cause division and promote hate. There is already clear support for marriage equality and finally, there is no reason to think the coalition will introduce marriage equality even if a plebiscite supported it!The plebiscite will provide a forum for hate speechI think we should block the plebiscite because of the potential cause of massive harm toward the LGBTQI communityI think we should block the plebiscite at this stage because it is evident that the way a national debate would currently be led and organised would be devisive and devastating to the LGBTQI community. The time is not right for this given conservative strength right now. They would make it a platform for hate speech and the promotion of conservative values at too high a price. I think we should block the plebiscite because it's not something I feel a bunch of men in suits should be ultimately deciding on - it's a question of equality, there shouldn't be a question as to whether it should be discussed, it should just be made law - now. We should not have to beg for Legislative Equality. Bigots should not have their opinions validated by giving them a say. Because I don't think, even if we have the plebiscite, that the current government would follow through on the publics wishes if it was to allow marriage equality. I also believe plebiscite will cause a lot of unnecessary distress to myself and my partner and our sonI feel that it is unlikely to lead to gay marriage being legalised and that the process coming up to the vote will be filled with hate groups campaigning against it. This will have a negative impact on the LGBTIQ community.I think it should be a referendum and word of law by the people's word.I don't think heterosexual people get to decide if queer people can marry. We didn't need a plebiscite for John Howard to change it to 'one man and one woman', we don't need one now. Bigots should not be allowed to shout this down. This is a discrimination issue and does not need a majority vote. Because it only requires a parliamentary amendment to legislation. The campaign will encourage hate speech and homophobiaClear majority of Australians are for it and parliament should respect this and pass a bill to end this discrimination It is expensive, pointless as we already know there is widespread support for marriage equality but it will give air to hateful opinions that could affect vulnerable and isolated LGBTIQ folk especially young people.It will not work, will be a waste of money, will be worded in such a way to confuse people, will divide and be rejected by the general public.A waste of time and money and makes a huge production out of a simple right . Divisive and gutless governmentA public vote is never the right way to determine laws about people's rights. it will have much more hate speech against lgbt and its a waste of resourcesMarriage between two people including same sex couples or GNS persons should be a right provided. It should not be decided by homophobic public. Australian government is a pariah in so called western world. I think it's a terrible waste if money that could be spent in health and education. I think it should be passed and juts let people marry if they wish to. I think it makes people continue to fear and hate and passing the laws will make these same people simply accept and deal with it. It's not their lives that are impacted its out lives that are diminished in value if we don't simply pass the laws I think we should block the plebiscite because of the welfare of our youth comming to terms with their sexuality. I feel the negetive impact from the opinions of the far right will increase the suicide rate. I also think it will be tough on the children of GLBTI parents and promote bullying within schools. It is also a waste of money which could be put into health, education and human rights.it's a waste of time & money that will cause much hurtful discussion.. and it's not even binding!I find the whole thing unnecessary & a huge waste of $$$. Besides, it's ridiculous, insensitive & hurtful to be voting for something which should not even be an issue. Did heterosexual people need to vote for themselves to have the right to marry?To encourage and even fund a 'debate' on whether some couples should be discriminated against because they are not of different genders is obscene! The public conversation around marriage equality will become more harmful and divisiveI don't want my family to be affected by the discussions that are going to occur while people NOT involved in my family make decisions ABOUT my family! I would rather wait until someone worthy is willing to just make the decision to give us the equality that we DESERVE!There should not be a plebiscite as it will be harmful to our son.There is no reason to have a plebiscite over whether to give rights to a minority. This is purely a human rights issue. The plebiscite will only provide a legitimisation to those having bigoted and discriminatory viewsAs important as this is for those who believe in marriage, I cannot justify the extraordinary cost. I think it should be blocked for exactly the reasons given in the previous question.It will be harmful to queer kids, and the kids of queer parents.To stop the spread of hate speech, myths and lies towards LGBTIQ people. As well as the Howard Govt didn't need a public vote to change it to dis-include same sex couplesjust causes trouble and they say they wont hold to the finding anywayThe parliament of Australia is set up to make these sorts of decisions on behalf of the public. There was no plebiscite to change the Marriage Act last time, why should there be one now? It only creates an opportunity for a bigoted minority to harass and insult people on the street. As parliament is not bound to accept the result of the plebiscite it is completely worthless and a waste of money. If you want a referendum on a worthwhile subject, do it to acknowledge Indigenous Australians as first inhabitants. It should not be the LGBTIQ community's responsibility to fight for something that can easily be passed by law right now, without having to go through a plebiscite. We have our own lives to get on with, and this is an unnecessary waste of time, energy and money.I want the government to do what it is elected for, to put bills through and not ask the Australian people, who are not elected to have their opinion.It's a waste of money. The end result may not even be acted upon. The govt should use their powers and allow same sex marriage without a plebiscite. I think that we should block the plebiscite because I find it offensive that marriage 'equality' should be put to a populist vote in this manner when the 'issue' of marriage 'equality' is clearly one of human rights, I think a plebiscite would be potentially extremely damaging and demeaning for the LGBTIQ community. Why do non-LGBTIQ people feel they need to be involved in this way - what a crock - marriage 'equality' is inevitable for all first world western countries - spend the money that is earmarked to be wasted on the plebiscite on education or healthcare. Perhaps the reinstatement of the important safe schools program.I think there will be increased attacks from Christian Right and other conservatives on the already vulnerable community It's enough that my wife and I aren't legally recognized by the Australian government, we constantly face discrimination daily, but to give the horrible people who are hell bent against my family a platform to spread their hate is ludicrous. Why should I have to explain to my 3yr old that his family is as valid as any other? i think we should block the plebicite as it is a complete waste of money which could be spent on healthcare/mental health care. The majority of australians are for mariage equality. no more more money needs to be spent opposing it.The plebiscite is unnecessary. Current surveys show that a majority of Australians are in favour of marriage equality. The politicians should do their job, represent the people and legislate accordingly. This plebiscite is a massive waste of money and a distraction from truly important issues such as Aboriginal welfare/sovereignty/a treaty. Although I myself am married (got married in the USA), I see this as not a particularly high priority issue. I'm married and if the nation of Australia is too backward to accept that, it's Australia's problem not mine.It is unnecessary, expensive and will cause harm.I think the actual Plebiscite has the potential for many to freely express their hatred. I also think it is a ridiculous waste of money. This issue should not be determined by a Plebiscite. I feel strongly that it is not up to other Australians thru a plebiscite to make a decision about my right to marry. Wasteful of resources and a political stunt While the Government using being blocked as a reason to ignore marriage equality is a concern, it is less of a concern to me than the provision of a validated platform for the hate speech that we can already see is being geared up. Providing equal air space to both sides when one is fighting against civil rights is ludicrous and dangerous.Stop wasting tax payers money and redirect those funds into useful services for the LGBTI community Most people are for marriage equality. This is just a way for the liberals to weasel out of granting it. I think we should block it because it is a waste of money, and the government doesn't have to act on the outcome. More importantly it will encourage discriminatory and hurtful advertising in the lead-up which will have consequences for the well-being of LGBTIQ people, and their families and may lead to worsening marginlisation and homophobiaThis shouldn't have to be up for discussion. Rights are rights. The money could be better spent on LGBTQI support & services. I believe the rights of a minirity group is not something that should be voted on by the majority. The rainbow community and the 100s of kids who are not yet "out" are already such a vulnerable group (particularly at the moment after Orlando) and a plebiscite is opening us up to potential harm. The plebiscite is a blatant delaying tactic by the hard right conservatives who will never accept homosexuality as a normal part of human experience, through fear and self-doubt. Allowing or even considering a plebiscite (or even a binding referendum) gives legitimacy to their view that non-heterosexuality is deviant, dangerous and unhealthy. Additionally, a plebiscite (or even a binding referendum) is totally unnecessary, a total waste of public money, and will produce dreadful public vindictive upon us from these people, which will further fuel insecurity - both external (abuse or bashings) and internal (lack of confidence or self-hatred).I think we should block the plebiscite because inevitably horrid and harmful statements will be made not to mention it's a waste of money.I am so worried about the harms the plebiscite will cause to the communities. There are a multitude of things the money could otherwise be spent on that will be beneficial for LGBTIQ communities It will stir up more hatred and bigotry, putting LGBTIQ lives at riskWe already know that even if the plebiscite is for marriage equality the Turnbull government has said that they will give their members the ok to block equality if they feel like it, so what is the point. This should be passed in parliament. When are we going to get out of the dark ages. I also think the plebiscite will increase hate crimes and fear mongering. I don't believe the Glbtiq community should be subjected to a debate about our right to equal human rights and therefore I think it is unjust and a gross waste of money I think that the plebiscite is divisive and dangerous. I believe it is probable the plebiscite will result in violence against GLBT people and their children. This is unacceptable, even though I believe the plebiscite will likely win a YES for marriage equality. I simply think it is abhorrent that a matter of equality should be subjected to the vagaries of popular opinion. this is especially so since I consider that the Australian public has been primed to believe that opinions matter more than facts or argument, a belief that hsa been fostered the whole gamut of media including, unfortunately our own dear Auntie.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is wasteful and the societal debate around it could potentially be very damaging to the mental health of lgbtiq people.I think we should block the plebiscite as it will give rise to a hate platform. My life is not up for debate, I work, I pay my taxes and no one has the right to cast judgement on me or my lifestyle when I have not broken any Law and have contributed to good of my fellow man.My inclination is to block the plebiscite because if we're unsuccessful the damage that's done could take a decade to come back from and I don't think the Turnbull government will have more than one more term.I think we should block it because the campaigning around it will be harmful and because it's unnecessary and expensive. I think we should block and get the government to do their job and just vote for a change in the law via parliament. I think we should block the plebiscite because it's a waste of time since eventually we will fall into place with the rest of the free world since we are unable to do anything off our own bat! If we have it it will cause a whole lot of boring backwards and forwards that's frankly I'm sick of hearing about. It takes people's minds away from real issues like homelessness and health etc.I think we should block the plebiscite because a majority of Australians already support same sex marriage in opinion polls and yet it is being held back by a group of politicians who get to decide "what is best" based on their own selfish agenda. The plebiscite will be a costly waste of money as politicians are not bound by the result anyway.I think there should not be a plebiscite because of the harm it will cause and liberals will not follow the outcome anyhow.Block it because it is a 160mil opinion poll that gives people the idea that human rights are a matter of majority vote. I think it should be blocked as it is a complete waste of time& money and will fuel hateful, damaging views to be widely expressedI think we should block the plebiscite as it will be harmful to LGBTI people and their children due to the No campaign that will be run.It will create a hateful debate which is harmful to a persecuted group of people. More importantly human rights shouldn't be up for debate!Harm to our communityI think we should block the plebiscite because it is unjustly singles out same-sex-attracted people as subject to "public" opinion, ie. that our basic rights need approval.The resulting violence and racism from the EU referendum in the UK should be evidence enough that a plebiscite is a bad idea. Free vote should be taken now and the plebiscite funding spent on something that's actually helpful like healthcare.I am disclosed that people I don't know and don't know me will be voting on my rights - I never got to vote for rose. The damage of the hate campaigne will take generations to recover fromconservatives won the federal election there is no way aus would vote formsame sex marriage and the campaigns against it will hurt usI am fearful there will be a negative campaign against marriage equality and I don't want my children exposed to the LNP's nasty attacksI think the damage done to people over the "no" campaign will be too severe. People will kill themselves over this stuff ... I would rather wait, until there is a parliamentary vote instead Expensive, unnecessary delaying tactic.We need to block the plebiscite because the Coalition can't be trusted not to rig it, plus the campaign would be a hate-fest ...It's 2016. Equality should be standard in Australia. The plebiscite will cause a split in the community and put equal rights back 40 yearsIt is very expensive and funds could be better diverted to where they are genuinely needed. It will create significant social division and discrimination and do significant harm to young people who may be forced to live a closeted life, and will not even be binding if the politicians rejects it which it seems they will. So again, why waste the money. Avoid the scare campaigns, the social divisions, and the discrimination by introducing marriage equality through more rational means.I think we should block the plebiscite to protect the LGBT community, regardless of the outcomeI think we shoukd block the plebiscite because it is widely known the majority of Australians support marriage equality already. Why waste money on something politicians can ignore no matter how it is worded?I think we should block the plebiscite because rights should be done by a popularity vote everyone deserves rights that's why they call them rights. My biggest concern is the cost and what will get cut to have a plebiscite and second the damage this will do to the LGBTI community I know I couldn't of handled a hate speech/campaign against who I was as a person and my community. The homophobia during and after would be two much!Block because it will harm the glbtiq community, cost tax payers way too much money and allow certain groups to discriminate and hate by any means they can I think that the plebiscite is a waste of money, will harm the queer community, and sets a dangerous precedent that the rights of minorities are subject to public whim. The original ban was done in parliment in 2004 and fixing this should be done in parliment. Block it as it will encourage the agression of homophobic views. I have lived through that and dont want my son to be exposed to uniformed abusive views. Eqality is a right not an option a responsible and just govt will support the rights of all.I think we should block the plebiscite as it will be harmful to many people in the LGBTIQ community and could be a large suicide risk.I don't think we should risk the lives of young LGBTI people for the right to marry. Marriage equality will happen.I think we should block the plebiscite due to the harmful effects that the 'debate' about the human rights of LGBTI people will have on our mental health and wellbeing. I think we should block it as it seems a waste of taxpayers money with no guarantee of a positive outcome for us. I think we should block a plebiscite on this issue as it will encourage hate speech and discrimination. Australia did not have a plebiscite to change the Marriage Act under Howard and we certainly don't need one now.We should block the plebiscite because it's a huge waste of money. Same sex marriage should just be legal. I think we should wait, because the emtotional & financial cost of a publicly funded anti-LGBTI campaign is simply too high.The older generation in my family is cis-het conservative and queer phobic. I can't engage this conversation with them because they have been verbally and emotionally abusive about the matter. I don't want my civil rights to be subject to them, or to popular sentiment. This is about civil rights, and minorities shouldn't be given civil rights as a handout. If it goes ahead, I think it will be harmful to the lgbtqi community as we will be blames for spending $160 million in an unnecessary poll that an be ignored by politicians even if there is votes of support for marriage equality. The PM needs to grow a pair and bring it ahead as other countries have. We shouldn't need to do this at all.A Plebiscite on equality is not necessary or binding. Allow a free vote in Parliament. Remove discrimination asap.I think we should block the plebiscite because the debate will be harmful to the lgbti community. It is also a waste of money as we already have a good understanding of the publics view on this matter. Waste of money, make decisions like we do without the plebiscite regarding marriage rights. Block the plebiscite as it will open the doors for hate speech towards the LGBTQ community, which could have a profound effect on the psyche of the community. NO law for human rights or equality should be open to a vote, either by the public or parliament, it should be a given.Block it. How utterly pathetic it is that PEOPLE even consider voting on other PEOPLE marrying.The money should be soent helping thise in need..not to determine whether something that is a basic human right should me allowed.I think we should block the plebiscite because it would be divisive hateful & hurtful to the LGBTIQ community. The right wing would vote against marriage equality even if the majority wants it. It would be a total waste of $160 million dollars & is only a delaying divisive tactic on the part of the LNP! NO Plebiscite!! Give me Equal Rights!!! Asking you to give me EQUAL RIGHTS implies they are yours to give. Instead, I must demand you give me the rights all people deserve!There is no reason for the government to go ahead with this wasteful plebiscite. The Parliament has the ability to pass legislation to return the marriage act back to pre Howard wording of the marriage act and allow gay marriage. Equality. It will be divisive and harmfulIts a huge waste of money and the politicians can still choose to ignor the outcome and vote the way they want.I don't want the rest of Australia saying what the LGBTIQ community should do, there are to many homophobic people in Australia . It's just insulting to say the least, it is still pushing that it's wrong and unacceptable. Just say it's an acceptable law and thats it, people will then have to work on there own homophobic issue.Block yhe plebiscite because it hurts human rights Bottom line is it's a waste of Money on a global issue which other countries have come onboard with showing that there is really no negative impact from Gay marriage in those counties.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a huge waste of money,is potentially emotionally damaging especially towards vulnerable members of our community,equality should not be up for public debate.I believe the plebiscite will create debate that will directly lead to suicides in young GLBTQI people and create a culture of violence & bullying to the greater LGBTQI community. It is not only extremely dangerous to an already vulnerable community, but inhumane as it makes no sense that other people get to vote whether our LOVE is acceptable to them. I also believe from statistics that I have read & many ordinary Australians that I have spoken to, that the majority of people support Marriage Equality, so this entire process is an incredible waste of money, time and will be the cause of more future trauma and death. Australia is already seen as a second world embarrassment to human rights internationally, from what I have heard on my travels. This act is clearly a distraction tactic from real issues that are affecting Australians. We have 2 young children & I do not want them exposed to the hate propaganda of us not being defined as a real family in the lead up to a plebiscite vote.because most of the western modern world doesnt think it issue.. so the fools who want the plebiscite need to know that I think we should block the plebiscite as it will only take this country backwards, it will cause pain discrimination and i believe after extreme nutters of religion and politics use this to bring hate towards the lgbtiq community it will cause death through suicide and maybe even murder, this is not good and i truly belueve it should be put before parliament and make th MPs do their damn jobsI think we should block the plebiscite because it's a waste of money, and we could achieve marriage equality without the cost, and inject the much needed funds into numerous other areas.Concerned re young people and the ensuing hatred increased suicideMy right to equal recognition under the law is not subject to a popular. I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of taxpayers time and money as well as seriously harmful to the wellbeing of LGBTQI+ people and families.It will be hurtful and divisive and the mental health of the LGBT I population is more important than marriage equalityWe need to block the plebiscite because young (and old) LGBTIQ persons are already facing enough discrimination. With the high rate of LGBTIQ suicide, we as a community cannot afford to be bullied in the media any more than we already are.Just make it legalWaste of our money, divisive for our community, outcome irrelevant because Lib party can ignore it and have a free vote anyway. A vote is all that is required. Why should the majority decide the rights of a minority? I think we should block the plebiscite because I would rather wait to have my relationship recognised as equal without risking the lives of many many vulnerable lgbti people in the process. I myself have already felt the pressure, the bigotry and the need to defend myself, and the debate for a plebiscite has no yet begun. I think we should block the plebiscite because marriage equality is a human right that should naturally be included in legislation Will create hate and a waste of money and not be binding.It's a total waste of money that Australia cannot afford and it will be so decisive that will spread more hate in this amazing country!I think we should block it due to the hateful advertisements and material that will be directed to the gay community throughout the campaign. It's tough enough being a teenager, let alone being homosexual. The type of arguments we will hear has real potential to be destructive to these young people.It's simple a total waste of time money and effortThe rights of a minority should not be determined by popular sentiment. The rights are sacrosanct whether a minority or a majority support it. Second, equal funding for yes and no cases will unleash terrible homophobic attacks and lies about us. We do not want to subjected to hate and bile from the LNP, ACL and other hate groups. Its not binding and was set up to fail from the beginning by Abbott and AbetzBecause this is not something that should be given to the public to vote on. the cost is too greatI think we should block the plebiscite because there are already enough MPs in favour of equality to pass a Bill, and a public debate will just give leave for the hateful minority to continue denigrating the LGBTI communityI firmly beleive it will do more harm than good, it will cost lives and relationships from the publicity campaign alone. The people who do not support marrage equality will fight to say it is unnatural and a risk to conventional marriage without any hesitation or thought on the harm they will inflict on people who are just living their lives. What a disapointment that our country has to go through this without learning from other nations who've walked this path before us.I feel that a plebiscite is a waste of time and money, this is why I feel it needs to be blocked. A free vote in parliament is all that is necessary Its a waste of money and not requiredNo plebiscite. Dangerous, divisive, unwelcome intrusion into people's lives. A plebiscite was not needed in 2004 when Howard changed the definition of marriage, it is not needed now. I want marriage equality. But the plebiscite will almost certainly increase bullying, violence and mental health (inc suicides) in our community. I have a 7 year old at school and no one will tell me how they plan to protect her from the plebiscite. But more than that, there are countless young people whose lives could be destroyed by the plebiscite, especially in rural, isolated or highly religious communities. And we already know that even a positive plebiscite result might not lead to marriage equality anyway. Equality is not a matter on which a majority public vote should be based.I think it is a waist of moneyDivisive, expensive, minority rights should never be up for public vote, mental health impacts.I don't want to see more harm come to the LGBTIQ community which may result from increased public homophobia.A public debate will cause si much hurt and damage to vulnerable people. Howard changed the rule with a simple vote in parliment this government should do the same. The plebiside is a sham and a waste if money. A plebiside will mean the minority anti and haters will throw huge amounts of money at it resulting in the pro majority having to equal the amount to clarify the situation to the general public. If perchance there us a plebiside then the rules should be simple "no campaigning" from either side under legal penalties. Love us love and for humanity to progress we need to let go of the past predjudices.Not only is it basically a super expensive glorified survey that’s non-binding, the NO campaigns are sure to be very harmful to the mental health of many LGBT+ citizens.Because 1 - We should not submit to the principle that equality is a matter for a public vote. In a democracy everyone should be equal under the law. It's not something to vote about or consider an option or a choice. It would be a bad precedent.2 - If it fails it would be very hard to justify still persuing it. Failure could make it 10 years or longer before we get it. Already been 17 years since we turned down the republic.Because it's not binding, it's set up to fail, even if we win libs will never enact it, do you need more reasons?I think we should block the plebiscite because it us disrespectful to us as a community.We should block due to the wasred funds better directed elsewhere. I am of the opinion there should be no question asked. Just tick the box following the rest of the world that has accepted equal rights.Most Australians already support Marriage equality. The plebiscite is not binding on the actual vote. I am against a plebiscite in any form, even if it means a longer wait. Marriage equality is inevitable, and I am prepared to wait. It is shameful that a plebiscite has been called on this issue, it should be a simple vote by parliament. The plebiscite will be divisive and cause a lot of hurt to many families and individuals. The plebiscite is an unnecessarily expensive venture that will open up the flood gates for hate speak and acts towards the LGBTQIA community. It's dangerous, end of story. The plebicite is damaging and unnecessary A plebiscite is unnecessary harmful and wasteful. However if we are forced to have it we MUST win it.Block the plebiscite because the mental well-being of the GLBTIQ Community (especially the youth) will suffer greatly and it will cause hate and violence towards the GLBTIQ community. It's already accepted by the Majority of Australians in favour of Marriage Equality. The Plebiscite is a total waste of money that could be spent elsewhere .I think we should block the plebiscite because it will be horrific to go through for LGBTI people. The homophobes will have a field day at our expense and the result is non binding anyway. Either have a referendum to change the definition of marriage in the Constitution or have a free vote in Parliament. The plebiscite should be scrapped. It may be harmful to some people in LGBT community to have the negative side of the debate being discussed in public. Also, the debate may cause alot of hate speech from the religious community directed at people who are homosexuali think we should block the plebiscite becuase i don't agree with it. it should not be up to public opinion whether we have the right to marry or not - it should be a human right, it all other people in society have that right, so should weI think we should block the plebiscite on principle, as I do not believe that our human rights need to be approved by a popular vote. That is the nature of a right - it exists whether it is popular or not. The Marriage Act was amended without a plebiscite, so let's just amend a ridiculous section of the Act and get on with it.It shouldn't be something people are given space to air their views on- much of which could be harmful and hateful. The govt should take responsibility for providing marriage rights to its people. Why are they wasting so much money on a plebiscite?!! Why are we still talking about this! Australia it's time you caught up with the rest of the world! I think it is just a ploy by the current government to appear proactive without any real commitment and I fear it will be a forum for gay bashing.We should block the plebiscite because the process will cause serious damage to young SSASGD . We already know that these young people are harming and killing themselves at unacceptable numbers due to the impact of homophobia, transphobia and biphobia. Any decent government that is concerned for the welfare of its citizens should rubbish this idea immediately. I think we should block the plebiscite because it's a waste of money. They should just give us the right to marry now. People should not get the right to vote on my rights. I think the plebiscite will give homophobic idiots a soap box to stand on. We've already seen misleading, hostile, and homo/transphobic attacks from the Australian christian Lobby and other extreme groups in relation to issues like Safe Schools and the Federal Election, including distribution of defamatory and misleading materials. If given a budget and platform to do this on an even bigger scale, the impact on LGBTI wellbeing will be enourmous.I oppose a plebiscite because the debate will feature, definitely, abuse of the LGBTQI community by all sorts of awful people who will make us feel like we have to justify our very existence STILL. My gay young teen daughter already finds the world threatening... this cannot help. But if the plebiscite is forced, fight to win!It is an wasful and stupid, there is no need to do it, exspecialy if it is non binding I think we should block the plebiscite because it is an insult to not only the LGBTIQ community but the Australian people in general, who have in previous polls, as far back as 2011, expressed majority support of same-sex marriage, an issue which is purely one of human rights and on which our government is embarrassingly behind the times. I think a plebiscite would be a woeful misuse of funds better aimed towards greater support of the LGBTIQ, such as the Safe Schools coalition and YEAH! Notwithstanding the fact that the LNP has not even promised to take heed of the results of the plebiscite, wasting time and money while still pandering to the ultra-conservatives within its own party and ignoring the voice of the people it is supposed to be governing.Too much harm caused. Free kick for ACL. There is a reason the bigots want it.I think we should block it because its a bloody waste of money, why should Turnbull waste a tonne of money on a plebiscite when a conscious vote will do the exact same thing. It feels like by Turbull pushing the plebiscite its another reason for people to feel anger toward the LGBTQI community (a waste of money for simple rights to be given) and make our every day life EVEN MORE risky in being ourselves.I think we should block the plebiscite because human rights shouldn't be open to a public vote. Also because the campaign against marriage equality by the hard right is disgusting and is already exposing vulnerable young people to the worst of the hate against us - the very thing marriage equality would help us as a community fight against. Block: the effect on the LGBTQI+ community will be too great, and the issue should be brought in as a matter of due course by government as a whole.$140 million is a ridiculous amount of money to spend on asking the public to beg for basic human rights and dignity. I think we should block the plebiscite because the debate will harm LGBTIQ people, their family and friends, it is a waste of time and money and I do not trust the Turnball Government to come up with a decent question or to even act on the results. I think we will end up waiting at least 3 years regardless of whether or not there is a plebiscite. It is a waste of money. The executive through the Aus Con has the ability to change the marriage act. Just do it and save the money for other things like health, schooling etc It is already clear that the majority of Australians are in favour of equal marriage rights, and having the country argue about whether your family or relationship is normal or acceptable would be horrible for our LGBT community its just an expensive survey which isnt gunna change their minds. SCRAP THE PLEBISCITEHugely wasteful, the government can make the laws we need without it. There should not be publicly funded ad campaigns that discriminate against minorities. Freedom from discrimination and Marriage are human human rights.Block because it will cause harm to already vulnerable groups, e.g. Queer children in schools, queer families.I think we should block it because there is already a majority of members of parliament who would vote in favour of marriage equality regardless of the outcome of the plebiscite. We know what people want. We know what is right. There is nothing left to find out.It opens the door to hate-speak which will make me and my relationship seem unnatural and illegitimate. There is no reason why marriage equality shouldn't be lawful - we don't expect religious institutions to have to perform ceremonies. No one is pressuring them to do so. I just want to have the same right to marry a woman as I have to marry a man. Love is love.Our community, especially our younger members, have such a higher percentage of mental illness and suicide rates compared to our hetero brethren that adding a plebiscite would only hurt them (and everyone else). A plebiscite would fund transphobes and queerphobes, giving them a platform to tell hundreds of thousands of people that they're not worthy enough for basic rights, not decent enough to raise children, not 'right' enough to not be forcibly divorced from their spouses should they want to transition. This plebiscite will give credential to queerphobia, because if we have to discuss it then something must be wrong with us, right? So queerphobes will just be further influenced because if we have to vote on a group's rights then obviously there must be something wrong with us. And I'm not here for government-sanctioned and paid for platforms given to people who think we're second hand citizens not deserving of the same rights as the rest of the populace. And I'm not here for such hate to be spread in our young members - especially when queerphobic bullying is already so prevalent at schools. And I'm not here for having my friends and family subjected to such hateful language every time they turn on the tv, walk past a billboard, catch a bus. We get enough hate as it is, I don't want to deal with months and months of it coming over the television and radio as well.If I were bombarded at 17yrs by the kind of rhetoric we are likely to see spouted in the lead up to the plebiscite, I likely would have killed myself. We are killing ourselves fast enough without extra help.I think we should Bloch the plebiscite because it's costly, wasteful and it's a human right and all people should be equal in the eyes of the law when it comes to two adults wanting to marry. It should not be voted on. No one voted on heterosexual marriage because it too is a human right. I think we should block the plebiscite for the reasons above (unnecessary, wasteful and harmful) as well as the fact it is completely degrading to be treated as though your rights should be subject to the opinions of those it wouldn't even affect.Dangerous divisive damaging160 mil does not need to be wasted. It should not take that to simply give rights for marriage. It is absolutely disgusting and shameful that the Australian government is so backwards ignorant. It is so shameful I think we should block it because it is a boring waste of money. I don't want to have to justify my family in public or beg my Facebook friends to be good allies. I would rather the money go to provision of other services and we wait for either Turnbull to flip off his conservative wing or a change of government. The vilificiation it will 'authorise' in the community. Dont want to live through it. Very bad for mental health.Giving a platform for disagreement is inappropriate. It's what the people want.It is a waste of money. John Howard did not ask before changing the Marriage Act. I think we could block the plebiscite because it could have extremely detrimental effects on young LGBTIQ people. hateful anti gays will have a field dayI think we should block it because it is a waste of time and resources to hold a plebiscite, when it is clear that the majority or people surport marriage equality It it superfluous. Just let people marry and use the money otherwise unnessarily spent on more useful means, i.e. suicide prevention of QLBT youth er tc.i think we should block it to stop hate speech being regarded as 'a right to an opinion'.....The plebiscite should be blocked because minority rights should never be decided by public vote. If the majority supported minority rights, then oppression would not exist - but it does, so therefore the majority cannot be trusted to vote in the best interests of the minority. Human rights should never be put to vote anyway. Everyone is entitled to equal human rights.I think Howard changed the legislation so easily and without a plebiscite so why do we need a plebiscite to change the law again? I think a campaign for a plebiscite puts LGBTIQA lives under the spotlight as no others are and I don't think that's acceptable. I also worry about the impact of a plebiscite on our children.I do not want to see the battle for marriage equality fought via plebiscite - even if it were to be succesful - as I believe the national debate it will spark will be harmful to our community, in particular harmful to the young and vulnerable lgbtq youth who may not have access to resources or community support. I think it is a wasteful and pointless proposition from the government that does not have majority support from the populace as it will not be legally binding and is a shameful cop-out. We don't need a plebiscite. Just [Expletive] pass marriage equality laws already. Plebiscite is a waste of tax payers money. I think legislative change is inevitable however a plebiscite risks many generations living through the damaging messages of the 'no' vote. It ought be a decision of the elected representative consistent w the principles of human rights. I'm happy to wait for this reason. I am so sick of people not getting a decision, this is just as silly as doing a Facebook quizUnnecessary expensive red tape. They are using this issue as a smoke screen for more important issues. Continue to demand equality on this issue knowing that it is only a matter of time until it happens. But force the government. To focus on the issues they're hiding from, indigenous affairs and environment. I think we should not have a plebiscite because we already know the majority of Australians support marriage equality, because it's likely that the plebiscite would provide a platform for homophobic hate speech etc (making life even harder for what is already a vulnerable minority), and because it's a waste of money. Fund 'Safe School', mental health, and education and health in general, instead. Love is love, and if our politicians truly represent us and what most people want, marriage equality should pass easily in parliament. We should block because of the inevitable wave of homophobic violence it will unleash. Waste of money and opens up hate speech parliament should just change the act as Howard did in the first placeI think we should block the plebiscite because it is unnecessary and the government is not beholden to its outcome. I think we should block the plebiscite because it will cause massive harm to LGBTIAQ Australians.We just need to pass the law we done need a plebiscite it could have been an election policy and saved money as well as bringing it into context with other important issues like indigenous rights refugee rights climate changeWe have the ability to achieve marriage equality without an expensive and divisive plebiscite. Our elected representatives need to listen to their constituents and make this happen. Most Australians want marriage equality! The current government has already indicated that they could ignore the result of the plebiscite anyway, so it's a pointless exercise.Harmful to LGBTIQ familiesI think we should block it because it will be a license for hate speech and will lead to a massive spike in queer suicides, particularly amongst young people I think we should block because the risk a plebiscite will pose to harm in particular vulnerable young glbtiq people; because it wont be binding for politicians so you might as well not have it; and because its a total waste of money. No good will come off it but harm and waste are guaranteedI I think we should block the plebiscite because it will be harmful to lgbti communities I think we should block it because the government has already said they don't intend to support marriage equality and it will cost a ridiculous sum of moneyWhile I think marriage equality is important I believe that the cost of the plebiscite to the LGBTI community will be enormous. It will allow the hard right & fundermentslists the opportunity to behave in a way that damages individuals & the community. I believe that holding a plebiscite is likely to increase the rifts within Australia. We have seen the increase in extremist right movements and attitudes against diverse communities such as LGBTIQ and CALD in recent years, and I fear that holding a plebiscite will give further platforms for these voices. I see these voices coming from a minority but worry about the impact on people who fall within the LGBTIQ rainbow, whom as a population are already more vulnerable than those who are not LGBTIQ. I also see the plebiscite as unnecessary and ineffective. Unnecessary because large surveys have shown that the majority of Australians support marriage equality. Ineffective, because it is non-binding on the parliament to follow the outcome. We must block the plebiscite because it is an utter waste of time, effort and resources. Everything I have read in that regard suggests that not only can the Government basically ignore it, just the process shall allow certain parts of the community to attack and defame the LGBTIQ community. Frankly... I say no.I hesitated between block or wait, but there is so much potential harm to the plebiscite, I don't think it's worth the risk of traumatizing so many people. Also, it's a waste of money. Ewwwwww [Expletive] themI think we should block the plebiscite because it will be an extremely expensive venture whose result can still be ignored by the government.I think we should block a plebiscite because of the huge financial cost (money that would be better spent elsewhere), the potential for a plebiscite to make people targets of aggressive speech and acts, and because a plebiscite result is not binding on parliament anyway -- the houses could still vote differently to the plebiscite result.I think we should block it because it is a huge expense that is not required; it also sends the wrong message, that the general public should get to vote on our rights when we should have our rights accepted regardless of popular opinion.I don't think a plebiscite is acceptable because this is a matter that can be legislated without a plebiscite and I expect the "No" campaign will be offensive and harmful.I think we should block it because it will give the homophobes equal time to LGBTIA community groups in the media. This will damage the most vulnerable in the LGBTIA community. I think we should block the plebiscite because it is non-binding, and will not tell us anything new. Opinion polls have been telling us for years that most Australians favor marriage equality. It's time the government just got on with it and put it to a parliamentary vote. It leaves lgbtqi people's open to public slander and discrimination, and is unnecessary and a waste of money A plebiscite will allow the no side the opportunity to argue against equality in a hateful way, causing damage and distress across the community, particularly for young people. A plebiscite is divisive, expensive, and unnecessary. Human rights are not issues to be voted on. We don't need another opinion poll! People would be damaged. Families would split. Homophobia and hatred would have a huge platform - in fact, would be funded.I think we should block the plebiscite because there is nothing gained from debating the topic. Saying that we should debate the topic of giving everyone equality, means that there is a legitimate reason not to. It's like debating climate science or vaccination. It will legitimise bigotry just as the referendum in the uk legimised racist rhetoric. We need this to be lead, we need to stop wasting time and money, pandering to backwater hicks. We need to show the Australian community that sexual orientation isn't a hierarchy, we are all equal. That shouldn't be a debate.I think we should block the plebiscite if possible. My teenage daughters will both be affected by anti-gay comments surrounding a plebiscite and it isn't fair to put them through that. This is human rights and is such recognised around the world in all the leading Western cultures... Why are we wasting our time and resources with this? The people have already spoken. This plebiscite, and its accompanying advertising, will give bigots open season on people like me. This plebiscite will cause deaths.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will only cause harm to people in the LGBTIQ Community with hate campaigns. It will cause irreparable damage to thousands of relationships and families with people that identify as LBQTIThe campaign against marriage equality will be full of hate towards LGBTI people. It's not worth the hurt.I think the plebiscite is an expensive, invasive process. I don't like the idea of my human rights being put to a public vote, and I fear the negative impact a public opinion poll on same sex relationships could have my 4 year old daughter and other children like her raised in rainbow familiesDoing it through Parliament as proposed by Labor will be a much faster and cost-effective way of achieving marriage equality, compared to having a plebiscite. Because it's just not worth $160M - that money could be put to so much that's good. harmful to young lgbtq peopleI think we should block the plebiscite because it will use a huge amount of money and may also give radical, anti LGBTIQ people the feeling they're permitted to act upon their radical views.Block it. It'll do more harm than good and open up the LGBTIQA++ community to more hate and discrimination than they are nowIt's personal and love is not a political issue. I think we should block the plebiscite because it's a waste of resources and is the result is non-binding.There is no need for this. The majority of Australians have already expressed support for gay/lesbian marriage; and this will just waste money and give bigots a mouthpiece. Just legalise gay marriage please. Thank you.Keep religion out of politics. Simple. Waste of money. Love is love I think we should block the plebiscite because it places the power of deciding an issue of equality into hands of the powerful and allows homophobia free reign to flourish under the guise of education in the lead up. It is akin to a vote on whether ppl of different races should have a right to marry. Divisive, no helpful conclusion. Just a distraction.I think a plebiscite will be hurtful and divisive. And it is not enforceable like a referendum. I would prefer to wait for the politicians that we've elected to make these decisions, to just get on with it and vote for marriage equality as a matter of human rights. There are too many negative consequences should a plebiscite occurI think we should block it because there should be no need to waste tax payer money on a very easy decision which only affects the LGBTQ+ community and already has great public support. A strong government should just step up and make it legal. Love is love.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will encourage hate speech, it may lead to violence against homosexual couples and their children, it may cause even more same-sex attracted teens to contemplate suicide, it will be a waste of money, and even if the vote is overwhelmingly in favour of marriage equality, politicians still have the option to vote against it so it's not legally binding and doesn't actually mean anything anyway. I don't vote on other humans marriages, why should other humans vote on mine!!It is not a matter suitable for plebiscite. It's time to get with the other modern nations. It's when, not if.The plebiscite will expose all of us to vilification.A waste of time and money and if allowed would allow homophobia to infiltrate the communityI think we should block the plebiscite because it is an insult, demeaning, and gives carte blanche to other haters to violate basic human rights of law-abiding citizens, by inflicting hatred and assaults. I live in a town (on the coast) without a secondary school, nor is there any school in the adjoining town that is larger -- this is where money would be well spent!It will be extremely harmful mentally, and it may be rigged against us. Because it's waste of money & bigoted.Needs to be blocked because the harm done to gender diverse children is too severe. I believe we should block it because nobody should have a say on whether or not two people can get married. I don't agree that I should have to vote on another persons right to marry at all.I think we should block the plebiscite, because a majority of Australians are in support of marriage equality already. Juast another political delay !!The LNP have stated that they will not legally follow through with equal rights: dames marriage despite the result. It should be voted on in the senate, saving the millions of dollars implementing same sec marriage, safe schools program as well as helping welfare of all people. My son was gay and I have hundreds of friends who are LGBTQI I think Australia is a joke that we are so far behind on this issue. I'm disgusted at the Turnbull government for holding this over the heads of people who are people I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of money that would be better spent elsewhere and there is no guarantee it will make a difference anyway Block it, why waste so much money on something that just needs to be an equal human right to be able get married?Waste of money. Parliament should decide.it will divide the community and it's expensive and pointless I think we should block the plebiscite because It gives people a campaign to spew hate. The liberal government cannot control what their own party have previously said Let alone control the terrible things my children and friend will have to endure and witness if it goes ahead. I think the plebiscite should be blocked because it's a divisive tool to drive us further from equality.the plebiscite is a non-binding and expensive stalling tactic. Push for a conscious voteBlock the plebiscite because the community has suffered enough hate over the years, and it is causing stress to LBGTQ people to do this. I accept having to wait 3 years is also not acceptable, but it seems the best of a few options.We should block because it is a waste of taxpayers money. The estimated $160million would be better spent on funding mental health care. After all it is the mental health of some lgbt folk which will be damaged by a hateful campaign staged by those who oppose. The marriage act was changed in Parliament without consultation, and now the government should have more than enough evidence for the support of marriage equality without the need of a plebiscite. While waiting another three years will inevitably cause direct harm to LGBTIQ people, I believe that the outpouring of violence and hate that will be stirred up in the wake of the plebiscite will cause longer term damage to more people.I think it should be blocked as I don't see it reaching a successful conclusion. I.e. If overwhelmingly supports equality the government is not compelled to alter the laws. I also don't understand why a plebiscite is necessary to alter a law altered to exclude LGBTI without a plebiscite.It should be blocked because they changed the marriage act in 2014 with consultation so why do we need to it to change it this time. If it goes a head it will cause untold pain, fear and even death. I think we should block the plebiscite because it is fundamentally undemocratic. The separation of powers came about to ensure that no one group or individual would be able to rule society again. The goal of a modern democratic government is to ensure and strive for equality in our society - to ensure that every single person is treated as having equal worth, has equal access, and equal rights. A plebiscite to decide whether some of our most marginalised members of society should be allowed the same rights as everyone else completely undermines one of the founding principals of modern democracy.I think we should block the plebiscite because.. How outdated and small minded is Australia. It's 2016. Remember when people were scare to give women an equal right to vote? Remember when people were scare to allow blacks equality?? Come on Australia. Get your head out of the Stone Age and just allow equality for everyone. Segregation is so outdated. Lets remember love is love regardless of gender. It's disgusting that this is still being argued about. This is not a political matter it's a human rights matter. And human rights matter! It will force a motion and with the new numbers it should pass. Also, the potential scare campaign makes me feel sick not only for my family but teenage students.Block it because of the vitriol, hate and lies that will ensue, and the harmful impact it will have on LGBTIQ people. And personally, I just don't see the fairness of people voting on my daughter's right to marry her partner. I am concerned about how hate campaigns will affect LGBTQ+ people negativelyLet the Australian public have their say by actually voting on the issue!I think we should block a plebiscite because it is a waste of money that could be better spent elsewhere, it could have a harmful impact on individuals in our community and marriage equality should just be a thing! It makes no sense that we don't have marriage equality already.I think we should block the plebiscite because it's wasteful and unnecessary I think we should block the plebiscite because it is an unnecessary wasteful process that will create bad feelings and hate amongst Australians. The government is elected to represent the majority of voters feelings, and in this case, the majority of voters feel that marriage equality is long overdue. It's time for the government to step up and start truly representing its constituents.I oppose the plebiscite because I believe that the human rights of any part of our society should not be subject to a popular vote. SSM should be a right, just as marriage is for the rest of the populationI think we should block the plebiscite because it will open the door for groups such as the ACL to spread their uneducated hate speech and will add to the negitivity within society to the LGBTIQ COMMUNITY and as a parent of a trans child I will not take this risk with the safety of my child or other trans and queer youth I think we should block the plebiscite - it is unnecessary - just accept that same sex marriage is a basic right - just as different sex marriage is a basic right I think we should block the plebiscite because it will be a big waste of time and money. The lnp are not bound to abide by the plebiscite. It will cause heartache and pain for all gay and lesbian alike. As a foot note if marriage equality was the goal then we should have voted labor. The lnp will drag this out for at least 3 yrs.Why waste millions of dollars on something that is a human right! Put that money into health, aged, homeless & schools!I think we should block the plebiscite because parliament already has the ability to change the laws on marriage equality and the plebiscite will just delay this unnecessarily. Block plebiscite because we are a community with too many other issues that divide us. I think we should work towards marriage equality through the legislature/ conscience vote in parliament. This is the lesser of all the bad options for something that should be a self evident truth.Waste of time. Just legalise it. i think we should drop the plebiscite because i believe in equalityI don't want to see vitriolic hate. I want to see the democratically elected government do its job by providing people equal rights and access. A plebescite ensures almost the opposite of this, and is also just a way of the LNP being able to push homophobic agendas without stating they don't want marriage equality. they are lazy. I think it should be blocked because it will unleash a wave of vilification and hatred that will be masked by the term 'debate'. Politicians are elected to make decisions. So get on and make the decision to have a conscience vote in parliament and be done with it.I will always fight to allow my sister the right to marry in this country, however the plebiscite is wasteful. Just amend the Marriage Act.It should be blocked to show a clear message that it is a potentially harmful process that wastes a ridiculous amount of money and is nonbinding on the parliament anyway. A plebicite is extremely expensive, takes time and will take too long to happen. A parliamentary vote is cheaper and more efficient, as well as being enacted more quickly. Pass marriage equality without a plebiscite!It will be harmful to the community and will allow for religious nuts to spew their dogmatic hatred.I think we should block the plebiscite because we already have more than enough polling evidence of the majority support by the Australian public for marriage equality. There is absolutely no reason to hold another poll on this that will cost an enormous amount to the Australian public and will only serve to give voice to the hatred and bigotry of the minority. We will only look back on the period where we discriminated against our gay community with the same shame that we do for once not treating people of colour or women as equals. The time has come for Australia to join the rest of the progressive, secular world and end discrimination against our gay community. We don't need a plebiscite. We need leadership from our government to do what is right. \ I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of time and money because marriage equality should just be passed and we don't need to give oxygen to the damage and immoral opinions of the "religious Right" minority groups. As selfish as it sounds I believe we should block it because of the waste and hate it may generate. Progress is inevitable and marriage equality will arrive eventually. I understand as a straight man I have the luxury of saying this without any true impact on my own rights but the risks attached to a plebiscite and the non binding nature of its outcome mean it is truly a waste of resources. I fully support and applaud the ongoing campaign for marriage equality and truly hope it arrives soon, under saner circumstances.We should fight it because it is a massive waste of money and legislation can be changed without itI think we should block the plebiscite. The liberals should stop denying Australians of equality. Make it legal, make marriage equal. Don't make us pay (unwillingly) for a vote on whether or not my friend, or a stranger should be allowed to marry each other simply based on the fact that they are of the same sex. Marriage is a beautiful lifetime commitment to one other person, and that shouldn't be taken away from anyone - especially based on who they love. It's wasteful. Marriage equality should be granted. It's a basic human right. Marriage changes mean nothing to straight couples but for those who are LGBTQ it means a lot. They should be recognized as a couple in marriageWaste of money, it is seen that a lot of people support it. Everyone deserves to be able to love who they choose and be able to have the same rights as everyone else.We should block as its a waste of money and could cause more nastiness. They should just legalise same sex marriage. Every human being derserves to be treated as equals!!It will be harmful and dangerous to the LGTBIQ community I think the plebiscite is a total waste of money. At this stage we are not aware of how it is to be framed, however millions of dollars will go into promoting it (which the Govt could spend on pressing matters) and apparently it still will not be binding on MPs. And in the process there will be space for public vitriol against LGBTI citizens.Discriminatory waste of money. I do not want "Joe Public " voting on my sons rightsi think debating something like this in the public forum, and having the public vote, turns it into a circus or a funded debate with sucess on media payments. i think there just needs to be groundswell and support. when referendums have happened previously, i believe they haven't been passed due to sneakily constructed wording and fear. We can't let an issue like this turn into a one sentence y/n affair.I think we should block it because I fear that the plebiscite will only serve to create a platform for those ultra-conservatives who will cause suffering and division in the community .We do not need to spend $160 million dollars on a non binding divisive opinion poll Because it is not required - a previous LNP government say fit ti 'redefine' the marriage act with no input form the people.I think that we should block the plebiscite because it is highlighting leadership weakness in the Liberal party and it is a HUGE waste of tax payers money! that is unnecessary in today's intention to attempt to block the vote in ParliamI think the plediscite should be blocked because of its Potential for causing lasting hurt to the LGBTIQ community, and even greater division in the wider population. The propaganda campaign that will be mounted by those opposing will be cruel, deeply divisive, and heavily reliant on religious bigotry and historical prejudice for its effect, which can only be damaging to all concerned. Already, the ACL has demanded the government abrogate the anti-vilification laws for the duration of the campaign, and anti-Gay MPs have signaled their ent.The Plebiscite be conducted according to current electoral boundaries, will not demand a compulsory vote from the people, and will not be binding upon those MPs who claim they should vote according to their electorate results, rather than the overall will of the people. I see no benefit, and great harm arising from a vote that has the potential to marginalise LGBTIQ people yet further, while putting the cause of same sex marriage back possibly for decades.I think the plebiscite should be blocked because it is a waste of money for a result that will not be binding, and because it will give the anti LGBQIT lobby an unnecessary avenue for public expressions of hate and bigotry.A plebisite is not necessary and is simply pandering to the hysterical religious right!I think we should block because it will give a platform for hate speech against marriage equality under the disguise of free speech.I think there is community support for "no plebiscite" and I think a parliamentary vote would support marriage equality.,I think we should block the plebiscite because it is unnecessary and will give media space to bigots homophobes causing pain and suffering to people who have been through enough. Marriage equality is a no brainer, Australia will not be able to hold out forever. We can only hope that they catch up sooner rather than later to save themselves the international embarrassment of being the last to the table.Dangerous and unnecessary. My son should not be subjected to such a harmful negative thing at such a young age.All that having this plebiscite will do is lend a soapbox to the homophobic nutjobs in our society, we know it will be 70%+ in favour, but then the politicians can decide to vote against it anyway. Either make it binding or spend the money on something that could make a difference, like health, education or the NBN.I think we should block because the cause of harm to the LGBTI community is too great to risk. I am also not convinced that the vote would be binding. Too costly and we just need a free vote in the house, it will pass without all the ratbags ranting.Block it because coalition MPs have said they would vote against marriage equality regardless of a plebiscite result. I think we should block it because it's both a waste of money and a threat to the LGBTQIA community. What's the point of having a plebiscite if several MPs have come out and actively said they will choose to ignore the outcome (even though their duty is to do what is right by their constituents)? Not to mention the (already occurring) mental, and potentially physical, harm a slur campaign will have on the lives of those this issue affects.it is the individuals right to choose, it does NOT effect anyone else.It will cause harm I think we should block it because the consequences of a well resourced 6 month hate campaign with no gaurentee it will give marriage equality, are far worse then waiting for three yearsA complete waste of time and money. All adults should be free to marry who they choose.It is a waste of money, just get on with it and pass the law.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will more harm to an already vulnerable LGBTQI community. I would wait and see, if it is blocked it gives the Govt the opportunity to walk away and have a free vote. At the moment their hands are tied because of previous promises. I don't believe it is necessary to wait 3 years. They have the numbers now. Just do it. I think we should block the plebiscite as it is a total waste of money. It is not binding on the government, they can still refuse to give equality. The government should simply legislate for equality instead of playing games. The people have spoken, they want marriage equality.I am very concerned at the potential harm to the community with people campaigning against LGBTIQ A law needs to be passed to truely bring about change, a plebiscite will not achieve this. It is a waste of money and will legitimise bigot hate speak which will be called freedom of speech and debatingI am fearful of a public rise in homophobia, both in action and language. I think we should block the plebiscite because it isnt binding....because the government already knows the outcome....turnball has said already the majority of Australia will vote for marriage equality. The haters will come out in full force and cause harm and hurt and i dont want that for my family or for anyone else, the cost of a plebiscite is totally ridiculous and that money could be used elsewhere.I think we should block the plebiscite because in principal it is a waste of tax payers money and will only cause more stress and isolation for the glbt community. Its was a ploy by libs just to get votes and pretend they care. because of the potential harm to lbgtqi from the homophobes mobilising the antis. Howard didn't need one to change the law in the first place.I have no right to decide who loves who. I have no right to decide who marries who. I should just 'be'. The suggestion of a plebiscite on who marries who is an insult to all of us or at least it should be. I think we can find something worthy to spend 160 million dollars on and then just grow up and say it is o.k. for loving couples to marry.Because this will open the LGBTQI community to tremendous hate speech I think we should block the plebiscite because I believe it will be damaging to children from any non-traditional families (not just same-sex families) as we know the ACL will use the "all kids need a mum and a dad" argument as one of their major public reasons for banning same sex marriage. This message can impact on any child not raised with a mother and a father because the message they may hear is that there is something wrong with them personally since they don't have a mum and a dad. My daughter got very angry when Howard originally changed the marriage act as she heard him on the radio when we were on the way to school stating that one of the reasons he was defending "traditional" marriage was because every child needs a mum and dad. My daughter was 7 at the time and shouted at the radio and called Howard an idiot and said "I don't have a dad and there's nothing wrong with me". However my youngest daughter is only 4 years old and I don't know that she is confident enough to let the claims that every child needs a mum and a dad not impact on her. I am equally concerned for her friends with solo mums, 2 mums and those living in kinship care (with relatives and not mum and dad). Of course this may also emotionally / mentally scar kids with 2 dads, single dads, those in foster care etc. It has the potential to seriously impact on a large portion of this generation and could be just as damaging as the stolen generation (not through taking kids from their parents or caring guardians, but through making those kids think that there is something wrong with them, that they are somehow less than, not equal to, the kids who do live with a mum and a dad). The ACL tried to link gay marriage and kids being raised without a parent of both genders to the stolen generation but it is actually their verbal and written poison that I see as potentially causing the real damage and allowing a plebiscite to go ahead means the children will be exposed to more of their rhetoric.I think the plebiscite is a waste of time. Marriage equality should be part of our human rightsBlock the plebiscite. Human rights should not be up for a 'democratic vote'. If you're human, you have rights. That's it.Potentially damaging esp to younger LGBI people or children of same. Decision makers not bound by it . Cost is outrageous when we so many better ways to spend that sort of money . And it is decisive . There is no legal reason for a plebiscite - like there way in Ireland . For all the reasons stated in the option. Plus it's unethical.Such an unnecessary expense, especially considering the Coalition have stated they won't necessarily pay attention to the result Waste of moneyand for no clear result. Better to have a referendum A plebiscite will serve to divide the country rather than unite them on an issue that should be a non-issue. Let everyone have the right to marry who they want and be done with it. For fuxache.No matter what happens history tells us that these fail time and againI think the plebiscite is a waste of time and resources and will just allow bigots and people apposed to same sex marriage to skew the debate.The government's role in managing social policy is to ensure equality and fairness. There is no logical real world argument to be made against marriage equality, other than it upsets you on a personal level and this is not a valid argument. Therefore, it is my belief that the government should simply allow marriage equality.The No campaign will be too hurtful. A plebiscite might help publicise the Yes campaign, and hopefully turn some opinions, just creating an us vs them situation can't end well.It is an unecessary waste of time and money, all marriages should be equal regardless of genderWe don't need a plebiscite which will be a massive waste of money. The politicians should do their job and get the legislation through. Stop a waste of money on something that is a foregone conclusion: equality and acceptance for ALL.Block it because we already know the majority of Australians support marriage equality so it would be a waste of time and resources.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a huge waste of money, and marriage equality can be achieved without it.Opens up australia to hate speak, is not at all binding, and has no meaningful result I think a conscience vote should be allowed becuase this is a topic where individual opinions matter more than party standpoints. My family deserves to be heard!Block the plebiscite, the LNP lose the next election I think we should block the plebiscite as it is a waste of money and the right to marriage equality should not be a popularity contestI think block it, it is unnecessary and a waste of money. We elect politicians who in turn should represent the views and opinions of their electorate. Equality laws should be passed to ensure there is no unfair discrimination or bias. The harm that will almost certainly be done by the "debate" will cause division for years, and will only add to the entrenchment of US-style binary oppositionalismI don't believe it is necessary , we must learn to accept that love is love and as should, marriage must be an available option for consenting adults. Also, I think it is a hugely unnecessary waste of money!I think we should block the plebiscite because it's an unnecessary waste of resources . Adults should have the right to marry any gender they choose to love.You will be wasting vast sums of money to marginalize minirities. It's harmful. It's hurtful. I think we should block the plebiscite as the money can be better spent on the homelessI believe a plebiscite should be blocked for two reasons. Firstly, if it goes ahead, we open the door to legitimise homophobic views in the public domain through various panel discussions, editorials and opinions pieces, social media posts and even advertising to garner support for one side or the other. The negative aspects of these public conversations will be so damaging to the health and well being of homosexual people and their family and friends. Secondly, the money used to fund a plebiscite could be spent on so many pressing social needs instead, including; mental health services and support, the environment, reduction of national debt, development of infrastructure, jobs and growth, or any of a myriad of things we could do to improve the country as a whole. Because there are too many vulnerable kids that will be vilified by it. Waste of money. Most of the country has been clear that they want marriage equality...no need to ask them again. And its time me kept step with time and caught up with other more progressive countries who already allow marriage equality - For heavens sakes - even some US states allow it - thats how behind we are :( Bblock it because marriage is a human right for everyone and the money spent on it could be spent on other things such as disadvantaged people and education or health care.It should be blocked because we know that majority of Australians are for it and it is a waste of money. Love is love and by not allowing same sex couples to marry we are saying there is something wrong with them and we need to stop this now. I don't think it is appropriate vehicle to decide on equality. The legal recognition of commitment through marriage should be available to all people - that is what equality is. Marriage does not need to be a religious issue. Why are legal and religious concerns tied in Australia? Legal recognition of commitment and partnership is much more expansive than whether a man marries a woman, a man marries a man or a woman marries a woman.The plebiscite is a waste of money, polls show that 75% of Australians want marriage equality I think the plebiscite is an unnecessary waste of money that will only serve to legitimise dangerous anti-LGTBQI rhetoric and action.A plebiscite will open the doors for a horrible storm of public homophobia, and in the destructive and divisive political environment in which we currently find ourselves, that risks very severe harm to queer people. There is also no guarantee that the government will effectively honor the plebiscite decision if it is pro-equal marriage - the parliament will still vote on the issue, and that vote will most likely simply reflect the conscience of those who vote. It then comes down to numbersI think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of money, we just need equal rights.I think it should be blocked: a) as it a massive waste of money when we already know that the majority of Australians support marriage equality. b) It is likely that some angry, homophobic voices will be allowed to be heard that may cause unnecessary damage to vulnerable families, particularly kids of LGBTIQ parents. c) Even if majority of Australians choose to support marriage equality, the government can still legally choose not to be influenced by the outcome of the plebiscite!It's a ridiculous waste of money and who's to say the gov't would honor the outcome anyways. Our leaders should be leading by example and making change to encourage acceptance and respect to all people. Avoid the wasteful spend and just change the two words required to change the law.I think we should block the plebiscite because it will cause more harm and pain to the LGBTIQ community. It will give those with hateful views a platform to express them publicly, and I think this has the potential to cause so much harm - particularly for young people and children with LGBTIQ parents. I am a teacher and I see the battle being fought every day. We are starting to make progress, let's not go backwards. I fear for the harm caused to LGBTQI people by such a divisive process. Marriage is a right, and should be available to all. Parliament should do its job, and allow a conscience vote (which is essentially what will happen after the plebiscite anyway!). To spend 160 million on a non- binding plebiscite is totally ridiculous. If you don't like gay marriage, easy don't marry a gay person. Love is love.Have a consious vote in both houses. Why do we need to waste the money on something that is so natural. No plebiscite, waste of money & hurtful to those in the LGBTIQ community I thin we should block the plebiscite because it's a waste of time and resources. The community has spoken it's very clear that Australians want equality in marriage. ITS A WASTE OF MONEY. I don't think we should be able to chose whom any two grown adults should marry. let them love and be happyThe plebiscite is a waste of money and allows opens up for more discrimination against LGBTI people. It opens the door for anti lobbying groups to create a hateful and dangerous agenda and potential abuse of this minority group. Australians have already shown that at least 72% agree with marriage equality and the high court has already confirmed parliament can change the marriage laws now. Listen to the people and do what the majority have already wanted for a long time. Block it because it is a waste of money for a common sense decisionBlock- treat people as equals, prevent psychological/social harm.It will only divide the nation on an issue that should unite us. Either all Australians have the same rights or we dont.The definition of "marriage" was changed by parliament before. Why should millions be wasted on a plebiscite now? How stupid and wasteful! The plebiscite should be blocked!!!!It is clear from all surveys that 75% of the Australian population is in favour of same sex marriage being made law. Politicians are elected to represent the majority view of the people. Failure to do so is to NOT do the job they are elected to do. Politicians need to stop promoting their own - often religious - views and do what is required of them. We are ruled by secular law and not religion or other personal view points.Block as it needs to be a simple change of law. Don't waste millions on a plebiscite which will divide the community unnecessarily. It may take longer but it will happen eventually. General public will see the plebiscite as a waste of tax payer money and time. This view will only harm the community and hurt LGBTIQ families. The government should govern not sit on the fence. There is no need for a costly and divisive plebiscite. Produce a bipartisan Bill to amend the Marriage Act within the next 100 days. Marriage equality for all.Because it will cost more to the tax payers to have the plebiscite instead of wasting time just put the legislation to a parliamentary vote it's time for chance and accept people for what ever their sexually is and let's get with the times and stop discriminate Not enough numbers in the senate to pass itBlock it because it's better to review the marriage act and undo some of the changes than spending millions of dollars and asking the general public to be judgementalI think we should block the plebiscite because it is not legally binding, even if the Australian public do vote in support of marriage equality, and members of the LNP have openly stated that they will not vote in parliament in a way that reflects the views of their electorate. The hate speech that it will encourage in the lead up to the plebiscite will be extremely taxing on all LBGTIA people but I especially worry about the most vulnerable in that community- in particular young people who are struggling with their identity, social acceptance, and any mental health issues.Its allabout adults being able to choose without politicians telling them who they can love & marryI believe marriage equality should be enacted by the parliament to reverse John Howard's change to the marriage act in 2004Human rights shouldn't be voted on, just accepted The government is not committed to implementing the popular view. Also, we don't need to open a dialog of vilification. We just need a government that can respond to public opinion. This doesn't require a plebiscite.Risk of harm to LGBTI youth & families i think we should block the plebiscite because it will bring out the best,but also the worst in this nations population,and the worst is DAMM DANGEROUS for our children.Pass the Law in Parliament and stop using the LGBTI community as a diversion, very cruelyThe plebiscite should be blocked, not only is it needlessly expensive but it would also legitimize political discourse from religious groups against every day people in an attempt to demonize them.We don't need to waste money on a plebiscite and it is divisive and makes more problems than it settles. I believe that it is fundamentally wrong to have a plebiscite on this matter - we elect politicans to vote on issues that are relevant to our community, they should do that job without wasting time and money on a plebiscite. There have been no plebiscites about other 'difficult' community issues, like abortion, and I see no reason why there should be one on this matter. It should be treated like any other. Further, it is merely a political stunt pulled by conservative politicians to try to delay or end the movement towards marriage equality. In addition, there is not even any certainty that if the plebiscite went in favour of marriage equality the conservative politicians would vote for it in Parliament. Finally, it will be divisive and encourage anti-LBGTIQ abuse during the lead-up to the vote. It is an all-round appalling idea.Homophobia is already rampant within parts of our community and it will be dragged kicking and SCREAMING when the plebiscite is unleashed! Considering it is TOTALLY unnecessary the pain it will creat will be unacceptable! For my son's sake NO PLEPESCITE!It really is unnecessary & a waste of time & money The plebiscite should be blocked because, ultimately, it is an over priced survey which will largely be ignored unless it results in a negative.I think we should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of money as the result is not enforceable anyway & it legitimizes that marriage equality is a choice not a right. I think we should block the plebiscite because. Almost 70% of Australians support marriage equality, a plebiscite is a waste of time and money. Besides, marriage equality doesn't affect anyone except those being denied equal right's eg "gay people" Why should we or anyone get to decide whether someone else deserves equal rights??It will bring more harm than good - a plebiscite is not needed - equal rights to marriage should just be a given We should block the plebiscite because it is a waste of tax payers money, put's power into the hands of those who actively oppose something by which they have the privilege of experiencing, marriage. I am concerned of the precedent it sets over human rights issues, the cost in $ and mental health when the oppose team come out and vilify. I also don't think people who are not affected by it should have a say. It has nothing to do with them.I think the plebiscite should be blocked. It will not be legally binding and could cause more hate and discrimination Block because other people don't get to vote on the human rights of a groupBlock the plebiscite because any debate will allow and encourage bigotry, ignorance and hatred from those who oppose same sex marriage. It is also a gross waste of money when politicians will vote according to their conscience anyway!Just accept marriage equality this is unnecessary. it is a human right and should be put into law. Asking the people will just allow space and coverage of the views of the judgemental and misguided and will cause increased hurt to many who are already traumatised the response of some to their sexuality. This should be law, not a debate. ................
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