I still don't know what to vote in the Aboriginal Voice to Parliament referendum...



I still don't know what to vote in the Aboriginal Voice to Parliament referendum...

Last weekend I attended a debate.... I kept an open mind as I had not decided.  I listened to both sides and at the end of the debate, where all of the women (about 60) voted on whether to support the Aboriginal Voice to Parliament Referendum or not - I abstained.  Interestingly while 59 voted against it, I abstained, as still.. no one had convinced me either way.

What I do know is this.. we need to address inequality in Australia.

 

Inequality is a complex issue that has become increasingly prevalent in Australia in recent years. It not only effects individuals and communities but also the economy and society as a whole. To address inequality, a range of solutions are needed, including policy changes, systematic root forms, and societal shifts. New line new line education is a critical tool for promoting social mobility and reducing inequality by improving access to quality education, individuals from all backgrounds can acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's economy. This includes investing in early childhood education, expanding access to vocational training and tertiary education, and providing targeted support for disadvantage students. 

 

We also need to raise the minimum wage. A fair wage is essential for ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to earn a living wage and live with dignity. Raising the minimum wage would provide a much needed boost at low wage workers and help reduce poverty and inequality. It would also simulate economic growth by increasing consumer spending and reducing reliance on government assistant programmes.

 

The high cost of housing is a significant contributor to inequality. Increasing the availability of affordable housing, particularly major cities, can help reduce poverty and homelessness, improve health outcomes, and increase economic stability. We need it to invest in social housing, provide Brent assistance, and implement policies that encourage construction of affordable housing.

 

We also need to address the systematic discrimination that exists within our community. Whether is based on race, gender, sexuality, or any other factor, this systematic discrimination limits opportunities. Addressing systematic discrimination requires a concerted effort to eliminate bison promote equal opportunity and opportunities for all. This includes implementing diversity and inclusion policies in workplaces, addressing the gender pay gap, and investing in programmes that support legitimise communities.

 

It's not OK for us to dismiss the idea of a referendum on the Aboriginal Voice in Parliament without careful consideration of all the issues involved. The Referendum is an essential tool for democratic decision making and will provide an opportunity for Indigenous peoples to have a say in the political process that affects their lives. It's important to recognise the unique history and ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous people in Australia. The idea of an Aboriginal voice in parliament is rooted in the recognition that Indigenous Australians have been historically excluded from the decision making process and that their voices and perspectives are not adequately represented in Australian politics.

 

However, the Aboriginal Voice in Parliament Referendum will do nothing to fix inequality in Australia. This inequality requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the root cause of inequality and promotes policies and initiatives that promote equal opportunities in outcomes. We have to prioritise education, affordable housing, and addressing systematic discrimination to ensure a fairer and more equitable society.

 

My fear, is that this train government, the Labour government, will see the Voice to Parliament Referendum as “job done”.  

 

But it is not enough.

 

It will not change the everyday lives of Australian Indigenous people.

 

It may be a start, but it is not enough. My fear, is that my vote of yes, legitimises and gives a “tick of approval” for a token gesture - rather than a commitment to the hard work that still needs to be done.



Niki Gent is the Principal Consultant at Family & Child Consultants with close to 20 years working within the Community Services sector.

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