Released 14/10/2023
Australians have now had their say, and that must be respected.
The national referendum result will be difficult to reconcile for everyone who contributed to Uluru Statement from the Heart and campaigned for constitutional recognition and a voice for First Nations Australians.
Thank you to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities who generously asked us to walk with you.
Indigenous Australians have shouldered a heavy burden this year.
In the months and years ahead, there will be a period of reflection. It is essential that there is national healing. This may take some time.
To the thousands of Canberrans who have knocked on doors, hit the phones, and spent time having hundreds of thousands of conversations, not just here in the Territory, but right across the country – thank you.
Change is only possible because of people like you stepping up and campaigning for a better future.
The ACT has proved once again that we are the most inclusive and progressive jurisdiction in Australia.
We are the progressive heart of the nation.
I hope that Canberrans who are saddened by the national result can take some heart that our community strongly voted Yes.
I want to acknowledge the respectful contributions from most participants in the referendum campaign. Here in the ACT, the campaign was largely conducted without anger and hate.
The success of referenda has always been the highest bar in our national democracy - the vast majority in our nation’s history have failed.
This result should not stop us on our journey towards Reconciliation, including the important work under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases