Australian gay couples will soon be able to marry abroad, the Sydney Morning Herald reports:
In several nations that allow gay marriage, including Portugal, Spain, Norway and South Africa, a person must produce a Certificate of No Impediment, which proves they are at least 18, unmarried and that there is no other barrier to them taking part in a marriage ceremony.
The Attorney-General, Nicola Roxon, will announce today that from February 1 same-sex couples will be able to apply for the certificates.
''This important change will allow same-sex couples to take part in overseas marriage ceremonies, and be considered married according to the laws of that country,'' Ms Roxon said…
…Same-sex marriages conducted overseas are not recognised in Australia, but may be evidence of a de facto relationship for the purposes of federal and state laws.
Australia's Labor Party added marriage equality to its platform last month.
