Tonight, hundreds of Victorians gathered to remember the 49 beautiful lives that were ruthlessly and senselessly taken in Orlando.

While gun violence may have been the manoeuver, and a terrorist may have been the messenger, homophobia was the message.

In face of such hate, we can't just offer thoughts and prayers, because thoughts and prayers alone won’t save lives.

That's why I want to offer my actions as well.

For the LGBTI community, I pledge to use the privilege of office to help build a state of celebration and courage and change – and bring the Victorian people along with us every step of the way.

The victims of Orlando, and every single person just like them, deserve nothing less.