Voice to Parliament Referendum

“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?” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese describes the Uluru Statement from Heart that would give Indigenous people input in policies that were particularly impacting them. In the vast history of Australia, there are moments that reverberate through time, going beyond the confines of the era to shape the future of a nation. One of these moments is upon us. Australia is standing at the edge of a transformative referendum; an event that promises to redefine the relationship between Indigenous people and the Australian government. On 14 October, Australians will decide whether to amend the Constitution to formally recognise Indigenous peoples through the creation of a body that advises the Parliament and executive government on policies affecting them.

The referendum is about the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. By voting yes, you are agreeing that there should be a body called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to the Parliament and the Executive Government of the Commonwealth on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Also by voting yes, the Parliament “shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to matters relating to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, including its composition, functions, powers and procedures.” People are voting yes because they think that Aboriginal people should get a say around matters that will be affecting them. This also means that it will be permanent and future governments will not be able to remove it. The Voice would be a good mechanism through which to negotiate Truth and Treaty processes with the Commonwealth.

By voting No, you are voting against the proposed law to alter the Constitution, and allow a voice for the First Nations people in parliament. Though the referendum is not just simply about recognition, the proposal goes much further than many people know. Arguments against the Voice are that it is legally risky, divisive and permanent, and the government may become dysfunctional and more delayed. Legal experts do not agree, as the Australian constitution is the most important legal document we have and every word can be opened to interpretation. This truly makes this a leap into the unknown. Many details surrounding the Voice are unknown, so we only very vaguely know how it would operate, and these details will be released after the vote. Senator Jacinda Nampijnpa Price says “the Voice will not unite us; it will divide us by race”. She contends that it goes against the key principle of our democratic system, that all Australians are equal before the law and there are better ways forward.

This is a very important decision. This will be decided by every Australian; it affects every Australian. So, what are you voting? Yes, or no?

Emilie S. & Annalise W., Year 8