LABOR senator Jana Stewart says an Indigenous Voice to parliament will allow for “practical and lasting change”.
Speaking after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the October 14 referendum date, the Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman said it would “give us a say in the matters that affect our communities”.
“An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voice to parliament is about recognition, listening and better results,” she said.
“The invitation for a voice, outlined in the Uluru Statement from the Heart, comes directly from First Nations people across the country – not politicians.
“The Voice will plan for the next generation, not just the next term.
“It will build on well established principles, practices and standards of accountability and transparency.”
Senator Stewart said she had spoken to undecided voters in Victoria, describing the feeling on the ground as “positive”.
“Victorians are keen to hear about the Voice and the practical change it will bring to First Nations communities,” she said.
Senator Stewart said she had a “direct appeal” to supporters of the Voice.
“Over the next 45 days, I ask that Victorians are loud and proud in your support for the Voice,” she said.
“The referendum is the best chance we have had to address the injustices of the past and create change that will deliver a better future.
“This is about taking Australia forward, for everyone.
“Australians know that it’s time to unite our country.
“A yes vote on October 14 will provide the pathway to make that a reality.
“Let’s walk together to a better future for all Australians.”
Member for Mallee Anne Webster has remained steadfast in her opposition to the Voice.
“For all the Prime Minister’s motherhood statements, how will the Voice have a practical impact on the serious disadvantage some Indigenous people experience?” she previously asked.
“The last thing Australia needs is another bureaucratic body. What we need are real measures to close the gap and practical solutions for the communities that are crying out for change – not more talkfests.
“I believe the Voice risks dividing us by race, and that is not how I understand what it is to be Australian.
“The Voice risks this by giving precedence to one race.”
Dr Webster said there needed to be clear, practical measures to address transgenerational disadvantage in Australia as a whole.
“It is my firm belief that we are one people and one country,” she said.
“The proposed Voice undermines this unity. We are all Australian, recognised under the Constitution.
“I will be voting no, however I also recognise that this is a referendum that will be decided by the people of Australia.
“I urge people to think about their vote when it comes time to cast it.”
