Advocates divided on AG plebiscite talks

Some advocates of same sex-marriage say a meeting with Attorney-General George Brandis over the government's planned plebiscite was constructive.

But others were left unimpressed.

Co-chair of Australian Marriage Equality Alex Greenwich said Thursday's teleconference was a constructive and robust meeting.

"We thanked the attorney-general for engaging with us and hearing our concerns," he told AAP.

But another advocate who attended accused Senator Brandis of being condescending to those present, describing it as an embarrassment for the attorney-general.

"Over 20 community representatives were unanimous in rejecting the government's proposals and in demanding parliament pass marriage equality now," co-convener of Community Action Against Homophobia Cat Rose said in a statement.

Legislation to establish the plebiscite will be debated in parliament next week.

Labor is expected to formalise its position on the bill at a caucus meeting on Tuesday, but leader Bill Shorten maintains the vote is expensive, unnecessary and potentially damaging to the LGBTI community.

He told Sydney's 2Day FM radio on Friday parliament should just get on with a vote.