Federal lower house MPs are expected to approve a motion today which asks them to seek the views of their constituents on same-sex marriage.
But a change to the Marriage Act still appears a long way off.
Labor MPs and at least two independents will back a motion proposed by Greens' MP Adam Bandt which acknowledges same-sex marriages are recognised elsewhere in the world.
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Bandt also wants MPs to seek out the views of their constituents on gay marriage.
But the Coalition will oppose the motion.
While Labor is supporting the move it still opposes changing the Marriage Act to recognise same-sex unions.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard has said it's up to the party's national conference, likely next year, to change policy.
