The debate surrounding marriage equality in Australia has pit some family members against each other—only most don't go at it on national television.

On Monday, Australian senator Bridget McKenzie appeared on the live news and commentary show, Q&A, where she faced a pre-recorded question from her younger brother, who is gay.

"Given the majority of parliamentarians and Australians now support marriage equality, is a $160 million [US$120.7 million] plebiscite necessary," Alastair McKenzie asked his sister, a member of the right-leaning National Party.

"And what impact do you think the debate will have on the emotional wellbeing of gay and lesbians like me?"

Bridget, who has been outspoken in her opposition to marriage equality, said it would be "damaging" if Australians didn't respect each other’s views on the subject.

"We took a plebiscite to the people. I have obviously a conscience view on this issue. I believe it is a conscience issue and it is that the definition of marriage is between a man and a woman," she added. "Polls would suggest I'm in the minority."

The plebiscite, essentially a non-binding public vote, is being forced on the country by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's Liberal Party, as aw way to avoid responsibility for a vote in parliament.

The fear in the LGBT community is that anti-equality forces will stir up all kinds of hateful rhetoric to win at the polls. (The government is planning to give A$7.5 million ( US$6.7 million) to both the "yes" and "no" sides of the debate for advertising.

The plebiscite is expected to take place in February.

h/t: Mashable