The Parliamentary Friends of the Uluru Statement from the Heart was officially launched at Parliament House by co-chairs Labor Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP, Independent Member for Wentworth, Allegra Spender MP, and Liberal Federal Member for Bass, Bridget Archer MP, on Monday February 13.

Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP says the Parliamentary Friends of the Uluru Statement from the Heart will champion and promote the Yes Campaign in the lead up to the referendum to be held later in the year.

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

“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”. Dr Reid said.

“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”. Said Dr Reid.

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”. Dr Reid said.

“I thank Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney MP, 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”. Dr Reid said.

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

For information about how to get involved in your nearest Yes Campaign, contact Dr Reid’s office on (02) 4322 2400 or [email protected]

ENDS