melbourne australian lawmakers thursday vow push laws legalize same-sex marriage early december national survey find majority australians favor move prime minister malcolm turnbull liberal-national coalition government main opposition labor party say aim pass law parliament dec. 7. timeline even early christmas deadline name turnbull wednesday country statistics agency report 61.6 percent voters survey favor marriage equality 38.4 percent legislation rush national parliament upper house senate late wednesday even colorful celebrations major cities continue congratulations roll international supporters legislation pass expect australia become 26th nation legalize same-sex marriage watershed country still illegal state engage homosexual activity 1997. legislation face opposition conservative lawmakers coalition pledge introduce amendments protect religious freedom would allow discrimination same-sex couple attorney-general george brandis move two amendments wednesday seek extend protection civil celebrants refuse officiate same-sex weddings move amendments accept turnbull tell radio station thursday crack get rival bill propose conservative faction would include widespread protections religious objectors include florists bakers musicians refuse service same-sex couple withdraw widely condemn full debate bill introduce senator dean smith member coalition country first openly gay lawmaker schedule begin nov. 27. almost 80 percent country eligible voters take part voluntary public survey high voter turnout britain brexit vote ireland same-sex marriage referendum same-sex marriage may law australia early december