AFL legend Michael Long says Indigenous Australians need profound change “now, not in another 20 years’ time” as Government Services Minister Bill Shorten refuted arguments a Voice to parliament would bestow special privileges on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

Long, who on Sunday launched his 19-day walk to Canberra to promote the Voice alongside Mr Shorten and Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, welcomed the support of major corporations and CEOs in the Yes campaign. Despite criticism from the No camp, Business Council of Australia president Tim Reed said companies were “obliged” to be part of the conversation.