LEADERS MUST WORK TOWARDS FULL RECOGNITION

Statement in relation to the government’s decision to propose an Act of Recognition as a step towards holding a successful referendum to change the constitution to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Congress Co-Chair Jody Broun today called for a commitment to the Expert Panel’s five major recommendations and on the timing for the referendum.

“Congress agrees that any referendum can only be held when it meets the expectations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and has the best chance of success,” she said.

“However both major parties must make serious commitments to the Expert Panel’s five major recommendations and to the timing for the referendum.

“Congress also calls for leadership and support from the Greens and Independents to achieve this reform.

“We look forward to seeing the proposed wording of the legislation and discussing this with the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader.

“This proposal appears to be one way to keep this issue on any future government’s agenda.

“However, well before the legislation’s proposed sunset clause expires, a national focus and dialogue must return to a referendum.

“Congress will canvass the views of our members including our Delegates at our national policy meeting in Alice Springs next week,” she said.