Same-sex marriage vote still an 'active issue'

Marriage reform could still be possible before the next Federal election despite a coalition vote last week against allowing a conscience vote on the issue, South Metropolitan MLC Lynn Maclaren has said.

Ms Maclaren said she was "extremely disappointed" with the result of last week's coalition party room decision but believed a private members Bill could be debated in the senate later in the year.

She said same-sex marriage was still very much an active issue.

"It was extremely disappointing to see this type of political tactics at play when what we need is an open debate," she said.

"The Greens marriage equality Bill is due for debate in the senate on November 12 - so there is still a possibility for us to achieve reform before the next election."

Ms Maclaren said her party would postpone bringing the debate to the WA Parliament because it was too early to say the Federal Bill had failed.

She said she did not support a referendum on the issue.

"It's an expensive exercise that is likely to stir up polarised views and homophobia," she said.

"It's frustrating that we are still at this stage."