You’ve probably been hearing quite a bit about The Voice to Parliament in recent months and might be wondering what it’s all about.
The 2023 Australian Indigenous Voice referendum will be held on Saturday, 14 October 2023, and now is a great time to learn all about what this means and what we’re voting about.
Join us as we explore a bit more about this vital topic and what it means for you, for First Nations People, our collective communities and the future of Australia.
Understanding The Voice to Parliament
So, what exactly is The Voice to Parliament?
Imagine a platform where First Nations Australians have a direct say in the laws and policies that affect their communities.
The Voice to Parliament is all about creating that platform.
It’s a proposal to establish a ‘Voice’ – a group made up of Indigenous representatives – that would advise the Australian government on matters that are important to First Nations peoples.
Why Does The Voice Matter?
While there have been some divided opinions about The Voice to Parliament, overall, it is viewed as a positive step towards giving First Nations people a stronger say in the issues that impact them, their land and our Country.
Here’s why that matters:
- Representation Matters: Indigenous Australians are the First Nations people of this land, and their voices deserve to be heard. The Voice to Parliament would provide a formal space for these voices, ensuring that decisions affecting Indigenous communities are made with their input.
- Closing the Gap: You might have heard about the Closing the Gap initiative, which aims to bridge the gap in health, education, and employment outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The Voice to Parliament could be vital in shaping policies that lead to real progress in these areas.
- Cultural Diversity: Australia is a diverse nation, rich in cultures and histories. By listening to Indigenous voices, we honour the diversity that has shaped our country for thousands of years.
- Learning from the Past: Throughout history, decisions that affected Indigenous communities were often made without their involvement. The Voice to Parliament referendum is a step toward rectifying this historical injustice and building a more inclusive future.
The Upcoming Referendum
Now, let’s talk about the referendum part.
A referendum is a big vote where Australians decide on a proposed change to the country’s laws.
In this case, the referendum will ask whether the Australian Constitution should be changed to allow for the establishment of The Voice to Parliament.
The question to be put to the Australian people at the 2023 referendum will be:
“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?”
This would be the first step in a longer process, but it would allow all Australians to have a say on what they think is right for us as a country and our communities.
What’s Your Role in This?
Voting in the referendum is mandatory for everyone aged 18 and above.
Even though you might not be old enough to vote just yet, understanding The Voice to Parliament and its significance is crucial.
It’s about the kind of Australia you want to live in, where everyone’s voice matters and where decisions are made with respect to the land’s original custodians.
How Can You Learn More?
Our dedicated employer partner, the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), has some really useful resources available on their website to help everyone learn more about The Voice and what it will look like.
There are lots of ways to stay up-to-date and support your education in this space, including:
- Stay Curious: Keep asking questions and seeking information. Understanding the issues that shape our nation is essential to being an active and informed citizen. The Voice to Parliament Handbook is a great, easy-to-read resource.
- Educate Others: Share what you’ve learned with your friends and family. Sparking conversations about important topics like The Voice to Parliament can have a ripple effect.
- Engage Online: Follow reputable news sources and Indigenous-led organisations on social media to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and perspectives. The dedicated The Voice website, Closing the Gap, and NIAA are great places to start.
- Read the Constitution: While it might sound a bit heavy, reading the Australian Constitution can give you a deeper insight into the laws that govern our nation.
As young individuals with a stake in Australia’s future, it’s essential to consider the kind of society we want to create.
The Voice to Parliament referendum is an opportunity for positive change, a chance to listen, learn, and come together as a nation that values every single voice.
Let’s stand up for inclusivity, respect, and a brighter future for all Australians!
