We know that many First Nations people were and still are hurting and reflecting following the result of the national referendum on 14 October 2023.
The Voice to Parliament aimed to build a different way forward in partnership with First Nations people. While the decision has been made by Australians not to proceed with the Voice, we note that an overwhelming majority supported the Yes vote in Melbourne.
We will do what we can as a city to uphold our collective promise to Australia’s First People.
We’ll continue to listen to and elevate First Nations voices and take action towards recognition and reconciliation.
If you need support, call Lifeline (13 11 14). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76).
Authorised by Sally Capp in Melbourne on behalf of Melbourne City Council.
Our commitments
Council says ‘Yes’ to the Voice to Parliament
On 21 March 2023, Melbourne City Council endorsed a motion (PDF 199 KB) in support of the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart, and the ‘yes’ campaign for the Constitutional Recognition of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.
Council also resolved to take a leading role in promoting respectful dialogue at a time when public debate about the Voice to Parliament may be damaging to the health and wellbeing of members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
We know that not everyone will agree with our position, but we believe we cannot be a city for all people unless all people have a say in decisions that impact them – and the intent of the Voice is to provide a clear avenue for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to have that say.
Council is committed to fulfilling our role and accepting our responsibilities in the journey to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and we believe that the Voice to Parliament is a significant and important step in this journey – one we hope all of Australia can take together.
About the Voice
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice was proposed to be an independent advisory body made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, chosen by local communities. Its role would have been to make representations to the Australian Parliament and Executive Government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Australian Government Voice to Parliament WebsiteOpens in new tab
