Australians voted in a referendum on October 14, 2023 about whether to change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing a body called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. The referendum did not pass.
The question that was put to the Australian people at the referendum was:
“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?”
The proposed law Australians were asked to approve at the referendum would have inserted a new section into the Constitution:
“Chapter IX Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
129 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
In recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia:
I. There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice;
II. 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;
III.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.”
Catholic Social Services Victoria (CSSV) acknowledges that the Victorian and Australian voting population has confirmed its decision not to enshrine an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Voice to Parliament in the Constitution. CSSV also acknowledges the need to continue to relentlessly pursue reconciliation.
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council – “We knew that when we started this journey, we knew it would not be easy. We knew that there were many hurdles to overcome. This has been the case for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples for over 200 years. Our strong culture and spirituality have helped us to survive through challenges, and an unsuccessful outcome to the Voice to Parliament referendum is just another challenge that we will face with dignity, respect and without losing hope.”