Civil partnerships

On November 30, State Parliament voted in favour of a Private Member's Bill to allow civil partnerships in Queensland.

The Bill, introduced by Deputy Premier Andrew Fraser, was passed 47 votes to 40 at 11.10pm.

Hundreds of people packed the public gallery and the Undumbi Room in the Parliamentary Precinct to watch the debate

Forty-six Labor MPs voted to pass the Bill, which was also supported by Independent Member for Nicklin, Peter Wellington.

The legislation allows for same sex couples in Queensland to enter into a civil union, and celebrate with their families and friends through a public ceremony, lifting the shackles of discrimination.

The move brings Queensland into line with New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and the ACT.

The Premier supported the Bill and described it as a move that sought to "strike a blow against prejudice and discrimination".

Work is now underway to ensure Queenslanders can register their civil partnerships as soon as possible in the early stages of 2012.