Since 2001, 12 countries have allowed same sex marriage as well as some states in the USA. Australia, despite the fact that cohabiting same-sex couples have the same rights as cohabiting heterosexual couples, is still not one of them.
The current Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard remains firmly opposed, arguing that “the institution of marriage has come to have a particular meaning and standing in our culture and nation and that should continue unchanged.” Yet the fight for marriage equality is gaining momentum.

On Thursday, Australian activist organisation Get Up (http://www.getup.org.au/) developed a viral to push for equality. The clip shows a young man building a relationship with someone he has just met on a ferry in Sydney harbour. Over time you see them going to Luna Park together, doing the grocery shopping together, playing beach cricket, going on a weekend trip and having a classic couple argument over the directions to get there, visiting family, moving into a house together, more beach fun, the loss of a parent, birthday celebrations... and finally... a marriage proposal. The camera however only captures the young man. Only at the end of the clip does the audience get to see who he is in love with... another man.

Get Up succinctly explains that "not allowing same-sex couples to marry denies them and their families legal equality and perpetuates discrimination and prejudice". This is also the sentiment felt by approximately two-thirds of the Australian population. Unfortunately, the fight continues.

This beautiful clip can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/user/getupaustralia#p/u/0/_TBd-UCwVAY
To sign the Australian petition click here: http://www.getup.org.au/campaigns/marriage-equality/petition/sign-and-share