Reid chairs group to champion Yes vote in referendum

The Parliamentary Friends of the Uluru Statement from the Heart was officially launched at Parliament House on February 13 by its three chairs.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid will co-chair the group, which will champion the Yes campaign in the lead-up to the referendum to be held later this year, along with Independent Member for Wentworth Allegra Spender and Liberal Member for Bass Bridget Archer.

“The time has come for our nation to recognise First Nations people in our constitution,” Reid said.

“Our First Nations have been a part of the land for over 60,000 years and altering our constitution to reflect this is an important step in our country’s reconciliation journey.

“The referendum will also ask Australians whether they support establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

“This body will be made up of First Nations members and will provide advice to the government on the policies and issues that affect their communities.

“A Voice to Parliament will ensure practical outcomes for First Nations people by involving First Nations communities in policy development.

“This advisory body will not have the ability to veto or be a third chamber of government.”

The parliamentary group will regularly meet during sitting weeks in Canberra and discuss strategy for the implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

“It is important that this campaign has cross-party political support, and I am very appreciative to both Allegra and Bridget for coming on board and being co-chairs,” Reid said.

“I thank Minister for Indigenous Affairs Linda Burney and Special Envoy for Reconciliation and the Implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Senator Patrick Dodson, for the progress they have made on this topic and their continued work for recognition and Voice.”

The Yes Campaign will have a week of action from February 18-24 and will mobilise supporters in the community by involving them in street stalls, doorknocking and barbecues to spread information about constitutional recognition and a Voice to Parliament.

For information about how to get involved in your nearest Yes Campaign, contact Reid’s office on (02) 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au.

_{Source: Media release, Feb 15, 2023 Member for Robertson Gordon Reid}