Senators Penny Wong and Cory Bernardi found rare common ground during a National Press Club debate on same-sex marriage, when the Labor senator jokingly offered to support her Liberal colleague in opposing the legalisation of bestiality.
The exchange came after a question about Bernardi's 2012 comments linking same-sex marriage to bestiality. Wong said: 'I would say to Cory, if you want a statement from me I would stand with you in a defence of bestiality being recognised in law, I'm happy to give that today.'
Bernardi had argued that redefining marriage to include same-sex couples could set a precedent for allowing marriage between humans and animals. He later denied equating the two, saying his remarks were misinterpreted. Wong disagreed, stating no one could have taken them any other way.
In her opening statement, Wong emphasised that legalising same-sex marriage would not disrupt society but would make a profound difference to gay and lesbian couples. Bernardi countered that marriage was not a right but an enduring union between a man and a woman for raising families.
The debate highlighted the ongoing divide in Australian politics over marriage equality, with both senators firmly holding their positions.
