WA Council of Social Service (WACOSS) Supports the Voice to Parliament
On 24 February 2023, the WA Council of Social Service (WACOSS) Board unanimously agreed to support the ‘Yes’ campaign for constitutional recognition for First Nations Australians through a Voice to Parliament.
As community service organisations we are privileged to work alongside First Nations peoples in the community sector, and much of our work is guided by their cultural knowledge and community connection.
Now, we have an opportunity to play a role in supporting the voice to parliament and ensuring that First Nations peoples’ right to have a say about the services they receive is enshrined in the constitution.
In May 2017, more than 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people issued the Uluru Statement from the Heart which calls for a First Nations Voice to Parliament to be enshrined in the constitution, and a Makarrata commission to oversee a process of treaty-making and truth-telling.
More information about the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
What Question will the Voice Referendum Ask?
“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?”
How is a Referendum Decided?
For a Referendum to be successful, it needs a double majority. This means a majority of votes in at least four States and across the whole of Australia.
To view or download the WACOSS ‘Yes Vote’ Fact Sheet.
Resources
How to talk about the Voice:
Yes23 persuasive conversation resources
Passing the Message Stick narrative guide
Get Involved
WACOSS: For more information
T: 1800 937 023
W: https://www.wacoss.org.au/voice/
For More Information
COTA (WA)
T: 08 9472 0104
Posted in Information