Brimbank Council is encouraging its community members and staff to learn more about the Voice to Parliament ahead of this year’s referendum to enshrine a First Nations Voice in the Australian Constitution.
Earlier this year, Brimbank City 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.
As part of this commitment, over the next few months, Council will actively promote information to the Brimbank community and Council staff to build understanding and promote a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum.
Videos, posters and social media promoting Brimbank’s support will be part of the campaign, along with opportunities to learn about the referendum later this year.
Council recognises 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 continues to support Brimbank’s Reconciliation journey.
Speaking about the Yes campaign, BATSICC member, Aboriginal Elder and Co-Chair of Reconciliation Victoria Uncle Shane Charles said “It’s an opportunity for us to be recognised in the constitution. It’s an opportunity for all Australians to walk together with First Nations people.”
Brimbank Mayor, Cr Bruce Lancashire said Council was committed to building awareness in the local communities about the upcoming referendum.
“We are a diverse municipality, and the rich history and culture of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community is woven throughout Brimbank.”
“As a Council, we are committed to Reconciliation. 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.”
For more information visit:
Brimbank’s support brimbank.vic.gov.au/YES
Uluru Statement of the Heart ulurustatement.org/the-statement/
The Voice to Parliament voice.gov.au
Resources for holding a Kitchen Table conversation togetheryes.com.au/
