Wadawurrung puts support behind Indigenous voice to parliament
The region’s Aboriginal co-operative has responded to calls for a First Nations voice to parliament as the federal government moves towards asking Australians if they support putting it in the constitution.
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Corangamite Labor MP Libby Coker would like the region’s Aboriginal co-operative, Wadawurrung, to become champions for a First Nations voice to federal parliament.
Labor is working towards a referendum to ask the Australian people if they want a First Nations voice to parliament enshrined in the constitution.
Last week Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released draft wording of a referendum question: “Do you support an alteration to the constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice?”
The voice is a recommendation of the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart which was endorsed by a consensus of more than 250 delegates meeting after a series of regional dialogues with First Nations people across the country.
Wadawurrung chief executive Paul Davis said the Geelong region’s traditional owners were supportive of a voice and wanted to champion its cause.
“In terms of support for the voice I’ve only ever heard positive views towards that and people are keen to see that implemented. Wadawurrung traditional owners are absolutely supportive of the voice.”
Asked if all details about how it will operate should be released before a referendum, Mr David said: “Too much protracted delay trying to get every detail right might mean that this generation losses the opportunity (to implement the voice). Best is sometimes the enemy of better.”
Ms Coker said it was time to give Indigenous Australians the recognition they deserved.
“Our First Nations people have been here for more than 60,000 years, and we need to recognise that and create a place for them to be involved in decision making on things that impact their lives,” Ms Coker told the Addy on Friday.
“I want our First Nations people in our region, the Wadawurrung, to have a role in our region to be able to spread the word about the referendum.
“I’d love them to be ambassadors for this so there is a role for them to play (in discussions about the voice).”
Corio MP Richard Marles said: “When we get to the point of a referendum, people will be well informed about what is being proposed.”
Ms Coker said she would work closely with Wadawurrung so the community was well informed.
“I think this is an opportunity for us to address history and to give our First Nations people recognition, dignity, respect, and a voice at the table.
“This is going to be a healing process. It is going to bring huge benefits and I are I’m very passionate about it.”
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Originally published as Wadawurrung puts support behind Indigenous voice to parliament
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