Marriage equality advocates have welcomed the support of Jessica Rudd, the daughter of the former Prime Minister and current Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd.

Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Jessica Rudd (pictured with Kevin) said: ‘’I believe in marriage equality and I just don’t understand why we’re still having this debate.’’

Australian Marriage Equality National Convener Alex Greenwich has welcomed her comments, saying Jessica Rudd is reflecting the views of not only a majority of Australians, but a clear majority of her generation.

“80% of young Australians want their gay and lesbian friends to be treated equally in all areas of the law, and that includes in the marriage act,” says Greenwich.

Advocates are hopeful Ms Rudd’s comments will have an impact on her father’s decision when the issue comes to a vote.

“As Foreign Minister, Kevin Rudd has done a lot for GLBTIQ community. We are sure this will continue and are hopeful he will also support marriage equality.”

A novelist, Jessica Rudd’s two books prominantly feature a lesbian couple, says today’s Herald report.

In his role as Foreign Minister, Kevin Rudd has overseen the introduction of new guidelines to make it easier for sex and gender diverse people to get a passport in their preferred gender, has filmed an It Gets Better video to combat anti-gay bullying, and his department will soon begin to issue Certificates of Non Impediment to same-sex couples wishing to marry overseas.

Rudd’s daughter’s view on marriage equality is in stark contract to her aunt’s campaign against gay marriage. Kevin’s sister Loree stubbornly quit the Labor Party after it changed its platform to support equality.