Tasmania is lining up its stars to become the first state in Australia to legalise gay marriage.

When the politicians agree “to endorse relationship equality for same sex couples,” the state’s key cities and rural destinations are hoping for a tourism jump and population boost. Long popular for gay couples holidays and family getaways, the new wave of visitors may be for staging weddings and escaping for honeymoons.

Recently, Tasmania started welcoming married couples – as long as a relationship is recognised by another country, like some US states, Canada and New Zealand. Once Australia passes marriage equality, same sex couples from other states would be eligible for the Tasmanian migration perks, too.

Besides the obvious gay welcoming cities of Launceston and Hobart, the capital, the rural tiny places are also seeing an influx of same sex partners who are setting up house and businesses.

Tasmania brands itself as “A World Apart, Not A World Away.” With gay marriage, Tasmania will stand apart again, setting the stage for more enticements and packages for same sex couples.

Northwest Tasmania – home to such icons as the Stanley Nut and hidden Sisters Beach – seems to tick all the boxes that appeal to gay and lesbian travellers.

Northwest Tasmania secret beach video

There may not be gay clubs and flashy city accommodation, but rich experiences include history, heritage, nature, gourmet food, wilderness and wine.

Previously, Tourism Tasmania produced an online Gay & Lesbian Visitor Guide selling the state as a gay friendly destination. When Marriage Equality prevails, they’ll have to prepare for the increased clicks.

Useful resources:

• TasPride
• Tasmanian G&L Rights Group
• Gay Law Reform in Tasmania
• Rainbow Tourism Tasmania
• Destination Gay Tasmania