Tony Abbott wants recognition model ‘all can embrace’

Tony Abbott has called for a model of indigenous recognition that the “whole country can embrace”.

Tony Abbott has called for a model of indigenous recognition that the “whole country can embrace” as he signals the need for consensus among leaders for reform to be achieved.

Cautioning against “substantial change” to the country’s founding document, the Prime Minister yesterday said he respected the views of Cape York leader Noel Pearson and his own indigenous adviser Warren Mundine, who are at loggerheads over the best model for recognition.

The pair have clashed over a proposal being advanced by Mr Pearson for a new indigenous body to advise on policy matters that would be enshrined in the Constitution.

Mr Mundine has argued that only incremental, conservative change would be successful at a referendum, and has called Mr Pearson’s proposal “radical” and “dangerous”.

Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion last night said he thought Mr Pearson’s proposal was a “step too far” and would confuse voters.

Mr Abbott has not indicated which proposal he supports, but said he was pleased to see “strong debate” on how to recognise indigenous Australians.

Mr Abbott and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten will meet with indigenous leaders on July 6 to debate the various proposals for reform being examined by a parliamentary inquiry led by indigenous MPs Ken Wyatt and Nova Peris.

As revealed in The Australian yesterday, the parliamentary committee is considering deferring a recommendation on a preferred model until after the meeting and a series of constitutional conventions.

Mr Abbott said he was committed to indigenous recognition and was confident a consensus could be reached.

“What we need to do is find a form of recognition which is genuinely a completion of our Constitution rather than a substantial change to it.”

Mr Abbott’s comments come as his parliamentary secretary Alan Tudge suggests recognising indigenous Australians in the Constitution’s preamble.