Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled what Australians will be voting on later this year
In an emotional and powerful message to the Australian public – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled the final wording for Voice to Parliament referendum.
Australians have found out how the Constitution would be changed to enshrine the advisory body, if the upcoming vote is successful.
Citizens will be asked: “A proposed law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?”
The announcement follows months of consultation with Indigenous leaders.
The PM was joined at the lectern by Labor senators and MPs including Indigenous Affairs Minister Linda Burney and reconciliation envoy Patrick Dodson.
Albanese couldn’t hide his emotion as he released the wording and explained how significant this moment is.
If Australians vote in favour of the Voice, the Constitution will be amended to include a body, called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
The Voice may make representations to the Parliament and the Executive Government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The Parliament shall have power to make laws with respect to matters relating to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, including its composition, functions powers and procedures.
The PM says the constitutional provisions will enshrine the two “fundamental principles” of recognition and consultation.
