The former Prime Minister of Australia, Tony Abbott, has attended the same-sex marriage of his sister.
Virginia Edwards and Christine Forster with Tony Abbott and his mother, Fay (Photo: @inlightenphotography | Instagram)
Abbott repeatedly voiced his opposition to gay marriage during his time as leader (2013-2015). He also became a figurehead in last year’s ‘no’ campaign – when the government canvassed Australians for their views about marriage.
This put him in direct opposition to his own sister, Christine Forster, a Liberal councilor for the City of Sydney. Openly gay, Forster campaigned to introduce same-sex marriage.
Australia postal vote
The Australian postal vote took place last autumn and the results announced in November. Approximately 60% voted in favor of a law change to allow same-sex marriage.
Australian politicians voted to change the law in early December, ahead of the Christmas recess. Shortly afterwards, Forster announced she and partner Virginia Edwards planned marry.
The women married today in Sydney in service overlooking the city’s famous harbor. Brother Tony Abbott sat in the front row.
‘I am forever changed by who you are and what you mean to me,’ said Forster to Edwards during the exchange of vows.
‘Without you, I can’t be me.’
‘I’m looking forward to having a new sister-in-law,’ says Abbott
Arriving at the wedding, he told reporters, ‘It’s a great family occasion, very happy for Chris and Virginia and I’m looking forward to having a new sister-in-law.’
Many of those attending were leading campaigners in the ‘vote yes’ campaign. Cabaret performer Bob Downe serenaded the pair with the song Love Is In The Air during their Bridal Waltz. It’s not known if brother Tony danced.
See also
Sister of anti-equality PM Tony Abbott announces her same-sex marriage plans in Australia
