It’s time to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Constitution.
In 2023, Australians will participate in a referendum aimed at acknowledging First Nations peoples in the Constitution through the establishment of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. This Voice will function as an independent and representative advisory body for First Nations individuals, enabling them to provide ongoing advice to the Australian Parliament and Government on issues that affect them.
The push for constitutional recognition of First Nations peoples has been ongoing for many decades. In 2017, this movement gained significant momentum with the release of the Uluru Statement From The Heart. This statement extends an invitation to all Australians to collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in building a better future by establishing a First Nations Voice to Parliament that is protected by the Constitution, as well as establishing a Makarrata Commission that will facilitate treaty-making and truth-telling.
The proposed wording changes to our Constitution
In recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the First Peoples of Australia:
1. There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
2. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to Parliament and the Executive Government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
3. The Parliament shall, subject to the Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to the composition, functions, powers and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
The proposed referendum question:
Do you support an alteration to the Constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice?To approve this change, Australian voters write the answer ‘Yes’ when voting in the referendum.
What this means for Australia
For more than two centuries, First Nations Australians have experienced oppressive and discriminatory policies from the government, despite the varying intentions behind these laws. The lack of collaboration and consultation has resulted in the failure of these policies, exacerbating social and economic issues such as education, health, and justice.
The purpose of establishing the Voice is to provide First Nations leaders with the opportunity to offer their perspectives on how to address these gaps and failures. Their input, knowledge, and experiences are invaluable in ensuring that successful outcomes are achieved.