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:
A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
Do you approve this proposed alteration?
Take action - Sign your support
Sign to show your support for a First Nations Voice to Parliament, and receive updates on the progress of the referendum.
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What this means for Australia
For 122 years our nation’s founding document has failed to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, and their more than 65,000 years of continuous connection to this vast land.The Voice referendum is an historic democratic opportunity for a unifying Australian moment.Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in our Constitution is the best chance this country has had to address the injustices of the past and move Australia forward for everyone, and the Voice to Parliament will give our First Nations people the opportunity to provide advice on matters affecting their communities.
More Resources:
Media Statement on the Referendum
The Uluru Statement from the Heart
Winning support for self-determination and justice
The Uluru Statement Supporters Kit steps through how you can spread the message of the Uluru Statement and encourage other Australians to accept the invitation.
