A gay Liberal candidate has pledged to introduce a private member's bill for same-sex marriage if he is elected to the Federal Parliament.
Kevin Ekendahl is contesting the seat of Melbourne Ports, currently held by Labor's Michael Danby, who also supports marriage equality legislation.
Mr Ekendahl said he intended to introduce a private member's bill because it was “very important” the legislation passed.
“I'm willing to put my hand on my heart and say this is something I want to do,” he said.
“I'm campaigning strongly enough on it to say I will pass a private members bill or co-sponsor a bill with the other members of parliament, Greens and Labor, whoever else to make sure we get the right legislation through and is supported from all sides.”
Mr Ekendahl said there was broad support within the Coalition for a conscience vote on the issue, even among those members who were opposed to same-sex marriage.
Labor has already pledged to bring forward legislation and allow a conscience vote but Opposition leader Tony Abbott said the Coalition's position would be decided in the party room.
If elected on September 7, Mr Ekendah said he would push for the formation of a cross-party working group.
