1yr on: push for civil ceremonies continues
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Official: Jennifer and Glenda Lloyd are among more than 70 couples that have registered their relationships. (ABC News )
Today marks one year since the introduction of the controversial civil partnership laws in the ACT.
So far more than 70 same-sex couples have officially registered their relationships.
The Government tried to introduce civil union ceremonies for same-sex couples but the Federal Government intervened saying the arrangement was too similar to marriage.
The peak lobby group for same sex couples, Good Process, says the ACT Government should now push for the laws to include a ceremony.
Good Process spokeswoman Heidi Yates says the first anniversary is a good time to re-visit the issue.
"We would like to see a legal ceremony introduced as part of the Civil Partnerships Act," she said.
"I guess until all couples regardless of gender have a choice or not to marry, then discrimination and prejudice will continue."
Paul Hartigan and Tuck Meng Soo have been in a gay relationship for more than 15 years. They registered their relationship but found the system less than ideal.
"It was like turning up to get unemployment benefits - it's got as much romance as that," Mr Hartigan said.
So for the gay community the fight against discrimination is still not over.
"I think it's quite important there be no discrimination between gay people and straight people in this matter and there is now," Mr Hartigan said.
"I mean, the discrimination - they've made an attack on it, but it basically remains."
Attorney-General Simon Corbell agrees but says the ACT remains at the mercy of the Commonwealth.
He says it will take a state government - outside the Commonwealth's jurisdiction - to eventually achieve that reform.
"I was very disappointed that a Federal Government refused to accept that position but we have to achieve what we can achieve and that's what we've done," he said.
"I think nevertheless, Canberrans who are in same-sex relationships have taken the opportunity to take it up, and that's been very pleasing."
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