Voice to Parliament Referendum

Bond University is committed to contributing to reconciliation with Australia’s First Nations peoples and we seek to assist the Indigenous peoples of our nation to improve their economic and social outcomes. As a university, we seek to learn from the heritage and knowledge of our First Nations people to enhance the education and research outcomes for our staff and students.

The upcoming Indigenous Voice to Parliament Referendum provides a very important opportunity for Australians to exercise their democratic rights. Bond University stands committed to empowering our students, staff, and broader community to make well-informed decisions, thereby embracing the true essence of these rights. 

As the debate unfolds around this significant referendum, Bond is committed to facilitating an atmosphere of informed discourse that fosters respectful conversations. Bond University upholds the utmost value of academic freedom and intellectual exploration. We recognise that these debates must be conducted with a dedication to learning and critical thinking and avoidance of misinformation and divisive intent. 

Ultimately the outcome is in the hands of individual Australians, and Bond University remains committed to ensuring that skills are brought to bear to facilitate an informed understanding of the issues and to disregard false narratives.

The question:

A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?

The proposed alteration to the constitution: 

Chapter IX Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 129 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice

In recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia:

1. There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
2. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to the Parliament and the Executive Government of the Commonwealth on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
3. The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to matters relating to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, including its composition, functions, powers and procedures.

Australians will go to the polls to vote on Saturday 14th October 2023.