Australian Parliament Approves Indigenous Recognition Referendum

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Facts

  • The Australian Senate has approved a constitutional referendum that would give Indigenous Australians a policy advisory committee in parliament. If passed by voters, it would be the first mention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples in the constitution.1
  • With the legislation passing by a 52-19 margin, Australians will soon be asked to vote on whether or not to constitutionally enshrined an indigenous "Voice to Parliament" committee. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be required to set a date for the vote later this year.2
  • Albanese has been promoting a "voice referendum" since winning the general election last May, with the Indigenous Australians Minister saying the referendum would help give a "voice to needs and aspirations of Indigenous Australians."3
  • Referendums in Australia require a double majority to pass, with a majority of votes nationwide and in at least four out of six states required for it to become law. Out of 44 proposals in 19 referendums, only eight have been approved by voters.1
  • Polling shows support for the referendum has fallen as the public debate has grown more acrimonious, although it's still supported by a majority of Australians. The opposition Liberal and National parties have adopted a "no" stance on the vote, narrowing the chances of success.4

Sources: 1Al Jazeera, 2Reuters, 3DW, and 4FT.

Narratives

  • Left narrative, as provided by Guardian. This referendum is perhaps the first serious chance Australia has to chart a new, equitable course for the country — one that includes the voices of the indigenous peoples of Australia. While not a perfect solution, the enshrinement of an indigenous advisory committee would help rectify Australia's shameful history of disenfranchisement and racism against the first peoples on the land. Australia should ignore the old guard and establish a new and fair relationship with indigenous Australians.
  • Right narrative, as provided by Sky News. There is a myriad of reasons to oppose the voice referendum that have nothing to do with racism, despite claims from the left. The details of the powers and scope of the committee are currently unknown, with Labor effectively asking the public to vote blindly. The committee being permanently enshrined would also increase the risk of partisan capture or obstruction, which Australia cannot afford. Finally, to grant one group special status over any other is incompatible with the values of Australia and its multiracial society.