On 20 August 2015 the Senate referred the following matter for inquiry and report by 16 September 2015.

The matter of a popular vote, in the form of a plebiscite or referendum, on the matter of marriage in Australia.

The closing date for submission is Friday, 4 September 2015. 

The committee has resolved that it will accept submissions strictly addressing its terms of reference: that is, the matter of a popular vote, in the form of a plebiscite or referendum, on the matter of marriage in Australia. Please read the terms of reference carefully before making your submission.

The committee has also resolved that it will not publish form or campaign letters or submissions, or petitions, received to the inquiry.