Chief Minister Andrew Barr and partner Anthony Toms in Newcastle on Wednesday. Photo: Ellen Starrett.
Australia’s first openly gay government leader, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, has tied the knot with his long-time partner, Anthony Toms, in a private family ceremony in Mr Toms’ home town of Newcastle.
The pair exchanged vows on Wednesday, the 20th anniversary of their meeting and the 10th anniversary of their civil ceremony.
Mr Barr posted on social media that the couple wanted to thank their family and friends for their love and support.
“We also thank the 7.8 million Australians who voted yes to marriage equality,” he said.
Mr Barr has been a fierce advocate for marriage equality and the ACT recorded the highest yes vote (74 per cent) in the country in the 2017 postal survey which paved the way for federal legislation to make the practice legal in Australia.
The ACT celebrated the Yes vote with a street party in Braddon, and the Government closing off Lonsdale Street.
Mr Barr will be back at work for the next sitting week on 26 November.
