Same sex marriage: Former PM Tony Abbott’s daughter Frances stars in Yes campaign video
It’s fair to say there are differences of opinion in the family of Australia’s former PM.
Tony Abbott may be one of the more recognisable faces opposing gay marriage in Australia, but that hasn’t stopped his daughter from fronting a video supporting the Yes campaign.
In the clip, Frances Abbott speaks emotionally about wanting to see her aunt Christine Forster – a Sydney councillor and former Prime Minister Tony’s sister – marry her long-term partner Virginia Edwards.
The results will be known in November and, while the survey is non-binding, Parliament is expected to hold a free vote on the issue should the poll turn out to be a yes.
Frances said: “It really just doesn’t make sense to me that it’s not allowed. To see Auntie Chris marry Virginia, to do it here in front of friends and family, it would be so special and I’m so, so hoping that’s what I get to be a part of.”
She added: “This is more than politics. What this comes down to is love.”
“My mother and my father raised me to stand up for what I believe in.”
Abbott- who has emerged as one of the key figures in the no campaign – said he respected his daughter’s view.
“Margie and I raised strong independent women as Frances clearly demonstrates,” he said, according to 9News.
“While I disagree with her I respect her right to have a different view.”
“As her aunt I’m extremely proud of her, she’s done something that’s shown real courage and conviction.”
It’s not the first time Frances has made her feelings on the vote clear.
Earlier this month she posted a picture of herself to Instagram wearing a “vote yes” t-shirt.
