While you’d hardly know it from what politicians and commentators have said during the fractious Voice debate – there is a structure in place that could be used in this post-referendum phase
The referendum has highlighted what many have previously overlooked or denied: that Indigenous Australians (like other Australians) aren’t of one political mind
Waging a war on ‘woke’ on issues from climate change to Anzac Day, the right-wing answer to ‘GetUp!’ is leading the ‘no’ vote against a Voice to Parliament.
Anthony Albanese’s attention is laser-like on the Voice, and trying to get up a yes vote. Peter Dutton, for a mix of motives, is focusing on the NT situation, as he campaigns against the Voice.
Even though there is strong Indigenous representation in parliament, this does not guarantee Indigenous communities a say in laws and policies made on their behalf.
This is a vote that is too important to be let fail. Yet you would be an optimist – despite the good support it is getting in the opinion polls – if you rated its prospects at 50-50
The Nationals’ decision sparked a vitriolic response on Tuesday from Indigenous leader Noel Pearson, while the Western Australian National party dissociated itself from it.