Addressing the media after the result was delivered, No representative Lyle Shelton of the Australian Christian Lobby congratulated the Yes camp on their victory.
“It’s been decisive and I congratulate them,” he said.
“For us here in the No camp it’s obviously a disappointment — despite the valiant efforts of so many of the people in this room here today and thousands of volunteers right around the country.
“Democracy hasn’t gone our way today but I thank God that we live in a free and open, democratic society and I trust those people who have been energised by this campaign will continue to participate in our democracy.”
The Coalition for Marriage has vowed to “continue defending parents’ rights, and fighting for freedom of speech and freedom of belief” in the wake of their thumping defeat defeat.