About two thirds of Border Mail readers responding to an online survey said they were happy with the High Court’s decision.

On Thursday, the High Court rejected challenges by two groups who claimed the government had unlawfully financed the postal vote.

Albury Marriage Equality’s Toni Johnson said the decision was upsetting.

She said not only was it disappointing the vote would go ahead, but she feared harm would be done by the continued ‘hurtful’ no campaign.

Ms Johnson, a mother in a long-term same-sex relationship, said it felt like her life and family were open to public judgment. 

“I’m concerned for people’s mental health,” she said.

“Something like this can bring out a lot of hurt, anger and frustration.”

Ms Johnson said there was already a higher level of mental illness  and suicide in LGBTI youth.

“There’s so much youth suicide and a contributing factor is your sense of worth and no feeling accepted,” she said.

“This leaves the door open to hate. There have been so many examples of horrible letters, posters and social media – it’s just shocking.”

New Life Chapel’s Michael Geerling welcomed the High Court decision but admonished the current tone of public debate. 

He said he believed in marriage between a man and a woman only, but was disappointed in the negative tactics occurring.

“It’s such a far reaching issue, it will change the landscape of our society and it’s important because it affects the whole community, that there’s the opportunity for people to have their say,” he said.

“It’s unfortunate but it’s become a very vitriolic public conversation.

“The standard of communication has been lowered.”