Australia’s government said on Monday it will hold a non-compulsory postal vote on whether to legalise same-sex marriage, if a second attempt to win enough political support for a national ballot fails.

Legal experts said a postal vote may also require senate approval, setting the scene for likely court challenge to the government’s plan.

The postal vote proposal marks an attempt by Australian prime minister malcolm turnbull to keep the support of both liberals and conservatives within his own party.

Tags: Australia, legislation, same-sex marriage