With the referendum to decide on whether we should alter the constitution to recognise First Nations people by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament coming up, Member for Robertson Gordon Reid has organised a forum on the issue.
The Robertson Referendum Forum will take place at Breakers Country Club, Wamberal, on Tuesday, August 15, from 6-7.30pm.
Speakers will include former ACT Chief Minister and Co-Convenor of Liberals for Yes Kate Carnell and Barang Regional Alliance Operations Manager Gary Field.
“The upcoming referendum represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help improve the outcomes for our First Nations brother and sisters,” Reid said.
“There are big challenges facing First Nations people: a life expectancy eight years shorter than non-Indigenous Australians; worse rates of disease and infant mortality; a suicide rate twice as high; and fewer opportunities for education and training.
“When you listen to communities, you understand the issues and problems much better.
“What a Voice to Parliament will do is allow First Nations communities to provide advice to the Federal Government and Australian Parliament on the issues and policies affecting them.
“This is about recognition and listening.
“I am sure there are many questions the community have about the upcoming referendum, and I would encourage people to register to attend the Robertson Referendum Forum.”
Registration is essential due to venue capacity limitations.
To register, visit: https://www.drgordonreidmp.com.au/our-coast-community/robertson-referendum-forum/, call Reid’s office on 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au
Information booklets on the referendum are also available from Reid’s office.
Source:
Member for Robertson Gordon Reid