At Abbotts, we acknowledge the importance of Mabo, Sorry to the Nation and the Uluru Statement from the Heart, as being incredibly important steps towards Aboriginal self-determination and recognition.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Australia’s colonial history is characterised by devastating land dispossession, violence, and racism. Over the last half-century, many significant steps towards reconciliation have been taken, however there is much still to do.
In a just, equitable and reconciled Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will have the same life chances and the same choices as other children. In this place the length and quality of a person’s life will not be determined by their racial background.
Rectifying this is the crux of the question that will be asked of all of us this year when we will vote on whether or not we support an alteration to the constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voice?
The Voice is a step on the journey to reconciliation and self-determinations by giving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a say in their own affairs. At Abbotts we support a Voice to Parliament enshrined in the constitution.
What is a Voice to Parliament?
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament will be an independent representative advisory body for First Nations people, advising the Australian Parliament and Government on the views of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on matters that affect them.
What will the Voice to Parliament do?
The Voice is a body which will:
- Provide independent advice to Parliament and Government;
- Be chosen by First Nations people based on the wishes of local communities;
- Represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities;
- Be empowering, community led, inclusive, respectful, culturally informed and gender balanced, and includes youth;
- Be accountable and transparent; and
- Work alongside existing organisations and traditional structures.
The Voice will not have a program delivery function, or a veto power
The structure and role of the Voice will be decided by Parliament through legislation, and its members will be chosen by First Nations people.
What will the referendum ask?
On 30 July 2022, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a draft referendum question and a draft of the proposed amendment to the constitution.
Draft Referendum Question: Do you support an alteration to the Constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice?
Draft Amendment to the Constitution:
- There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
- 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.
- The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to the composition, functions, powers and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
For more information regarding the referendum, and the voice to Parliament, visit the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice website.