by Rex Wockner
Australia's Senate and House of Representatives passed legislation in late November that changes some 100 laws to give gay couples equal rights.
The measure now goes to the Governor-General for formal approval.
The changes, introduced by the federal government, extend spousal rights to same-sex de facto couples in areas such as health care, taxation, pensions, parenting, public benefits, workplace benefits, workers' compensation, veterans' affairs, elder care and educational assistance.
"At long last we have removed discrimination against same-sex couples from commonwealth law," said Attorney-General Robert McClelland.
Gay campaigners cheered the move but said gay couples will not have complete equality until they can get married.
