Brimbank council is pledging its support for the Voice to Parliament ahead of this year’s referendum to enshrine a First Nations voice in the Australian Constitution.
Earlier in the year, Brimbank council signed the ‘Mayors for the Voice to Parliament’ public statement, noting support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament.
Council is now encouraging community members and staff to learn more about the Voice to Parliament.
As part of this commitment, council will be actively promoting information among the community and council staff to build understanding and promote a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum.
The campaign will include videos, posters and social media to promote Brimbank’s support, along with opportunities to learn about the referendum later this year.
Council said it recognises that there are different views within the community, and is encouraging residents to have respectful conversations.
The Brimbank Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Consultative Committee (BATSICC) has advised council in this work, and will continue to support Brimbank’s reconciliation journey.
Speaking about the campaign, BATSICC member and Aboriginal elder, Uncle Shane Charles said the Voice to Parliament is an opportunity for Indigenous Australians to be recognised in the constitution.
“It’s an opportunity for all Australians to walk together with First Nations people,” he said.
Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said council is committed to reconciliation.
“We are a diverse municipality, and the rich history and culture of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community is woven throughout Brimbank,” he said.
“… We acknowledge we are on a journey of listening and learning, and we continue to work actively in partnership with the Traditional Custodians of the land and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
“We believe that enshrining the Voice to Parliament in the Constitution will enrich and benefit Australia.
“As local leaders, we are committed to building awareness in our communities about the upcoming referendum.”
