Australia - June 2023

On 19 June, Australia’s Senate approved legislation to hold a referendum on indigenous rights, clearing the last procedural obstacle toward a public vote that would acknowledge the indigenous population in the constitution and enhance their representation in parliament. The date for the referendum is yet to be set, however the legislation mandates that it is held no sooner than two months as well as no later than six months from 19 June. The Indigenous Voice to the Parliament, also known as the Voice, is a proposed federal advisory body that will be made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, chosen by Indigenous communities.

Sources: Australian Broadcasting Company, National indigenous Australians Agency, The Guardian