News got out at the weekend it was unlikely the federal government would proceed in 2016 with the plebiscite on same-sex marriage. But, it would not confirm plans to have the vote in February.

The reason for the delay is apparently that the Australian Electoral Commission does not believe there is enough time to conduct the plebiscite properly in 2016.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull is expected to announce a timeline aimed at February at a Coalition party room meeting on September 13, media reports said.

Delays in the plebiscite advantage opponents of same-sex marriage, of which there are a fair few in the Coalition. They don’t want the marriage act changed.

They ignore endlessly repeated opinion poll results showing most Australians don’t oppose same-sex marriage.

With rightwinger Tony Abbott in power they fought and won an argument against a conscience vote in parliament. Why? Because they knew the outcome would support marriage equality and it would become law. So, voting would be according to party policy only.

Then they decided to duck responsibility and pass the buck. A plebiscite became policy. Not a legally-binding referendum, but a vote costing about $160 million which has no legal force and ultimately can be ignored.

When Mr Turnbull toppled Mr Abbott, same-sex marriage advocates were filled with hope there would be change in the government and then of the law.

Many saw him as an agent of change. He did nothing. He was held in check by the Liberal Party right wing. 

He committed to pursuing the plebiscite. He said in the election campaign he expected the vote to be held by the end of 2016.

Post-election, he is weak in his partyroom and has a razor-thin majority.

Supporters of equality have valid concerns the debate in the plebiscite lead-up could become ugly and damage already vulnerable members of their community.

Any delays stretch out their wait for equality. Opponents gain from any postponement of something they absolutely don’t want. But, the issue will not just go away.

Did the PM not think to ask if the vote could be held? On such an important issue? He looks like Malcolm in a muddle.