Employers are being asked to back equal marriage rights for same-sex couples by signing an online list of major companies that morally and financially recognise their same-sex attracted employees’ relationships.

Australian Marriage Equality online register has already garnered support from the Commonwealth Bank, IBM, Qantas and Seek Ltd – and many others are set to join.
"A lot of employees recognise their staff members’ same-sex relationships," AME national secretary Alex Greenwich said.

"If corporations are happy to recognise same-sex marriages and it doesn't affect their businesses - in fact helps their businesses - it doesn't make sense for the government to deny these relationships."

Targeting major companies known for their gay-friendly attitudes, the register sends a strong message about the financial benefits that come with recognising same-sex couples.
IBM's strategic brand and values communication manager Maris Stanley knows firsthand how her company's approach has helped to boost morale and pride in IBM.
"IBM has always recognised same-sex partners as having exactly the same rights as any other de facto relationship," she said.

"It was the same before my partner and I had our commitment ceremony. I was entitled to all the same HR policies and benefits, which was particularly important last year when we had a baby and I needed to take parental leave.

"To know that my company is at the forefront of this push for diversity, both here in Australia and worldwide, is a great feeling. It gives me a lot of pride."

And there are benefits to gay-friendly companies, as Greenwich points out.
"As the number of countries which provide same-sex marriage grows, along with the number of Australians entering into same-sex marriages, recognition becomes a valuable tool in attracting employees," he said.

"Hopefully this is a statement that says if large organisations that turn over millions and billions of dollars don't see this as an issue, then neither should the government."

Sydney Star Observer, www.ssonet.com.au

Info: The ever-growing list will be published on the AME web site, http://www.australianmarriageequality.com/employers.htm

by ANI LAMONT