So I'm proud to lead a council that resolved to support the 'yes' campaign in Australia's current marriage-law plebiscite at the first ordinary meeting of our new three-year term last week.

Almost a year after unveiling a rainbow-walk in Islington Park, council voted in favour of five measures to support the right of same-sex couples to marry.

In reaffirming the city's commitment to marriage equality, Newcastle City Council will write to the Federal Government and Federal Opposition advising them of the city's support for marriage equality, and fly a rainbow flag above City Hall.

We'll also campaign for marriage equality and erect banners across the city in support of a 'yes' vote.

These measures are about showing members of the local lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex or queer (LGBTIQ) community that the city stands beside them in supporting their right to marry the person they love. 

Beyond Blue stats show the rate of suicide attempts is up to 14 times higher among LGBTIQ people.

They are also twice as likely to have a high level of psychological distress.

So, we as a community, and through the resources of council, can send a message of marriage equality that helps alleviate these stresses.