ll across this nation, a movement of Australians is stirring. People are saying this is the right thing to do, the decent thing to do, and we should fix it. If we all play a part, every one of us can help to bring about a big moment – indeed a great moment – in the life of our nation. " - Recognise.com
Is the time right to vote yes?
Current interest in constitutional reform builds on the growing awareness around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and issues by all Australians. Ten years ago, the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation identified constitutional reform as unfinished business of the reconciliation agenda, calling for a referendum.
Recent events like the Reconciliation march in 2000, the National Apology in 2008 and Government support for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, have shown that Australians are standing up in support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Support is also building in government:
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"The Apology was about getting it right for the past. Constitutional recognition is about getting it right for tomorrow.”
KEVIN RUDD, Prime Minister
“I'm a big supporter of this. It should be a unifying moment for Australia. It should be a healing moment for Australia. And that's what I want to bring about. ”
TONY ABBOTT, Opposition Leader
“What a great thing for Australia it would be if, at last, we recognised Australia’s first people in our Constitution”
CHRISTINE MILNE, Greens Leader
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Help spread the word
At its heart, Constitutional recognition goes to our values as a nation – how should we reflect the history, cultures and continuing contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our defining document?
The lessons learnt from successful referendums is that political support across all parties is important, and that awareness and ownership by the Australian people is essential.
The path to success now requires reaching the hearts and minds of the Australian people and empowerment though knowledge.
"A
Australia has a history of successful constitutional change.
In 1967 the Australian Parliment held a referendum to vote on the alteration of the Australian constitution.
The sections of the Constitution under scrutiny were sections 51 (xxvi) and section 127
Getting Involved
2 Recognition /August 2013
Does Australia have what it takes?
First steps of
RECOGNITION
5 Ways to actively
promote change