The Greens have warmly welcomed the announcement of the referendum on 14 October and recommitted their support for the campaign for Yes.
South Australian Senators Sarah Hanson-Young and Barbara Pocock represented the Australian Greens party room at the government’s announcement in Adelaide this morning, and Greens Leader Adam Bandt campaigned in Melbourne this morning and will visit Adelaide on Friday.
Greens Leader Adam Bandt MP said:
“As the first political party to endorse the Uluru Statement from the Heart in full, the Greens are proud to support the campaign for Yes.
“First Nations people are the experts on First Nations policy. When they give advice, governments must listen and act.
“A successful Yes vote at this Referendum is a step towards justice for First Nations people, and towards the solutions that First Nations people have been fighting for for decades.”
Greens portfolio holder for First Nations and Yamatji Noongar woman, Senator Dorinda Cox said:
“A successful Referendum will amplify First Nations voices. Our voices will be heard, and the government will have a responsibility to listen and act.
“First Nations self-determination will lead to better outcomes in housing, health, education and more.
“Together we demand a future where no matter who we are, we are all treated equally, and First Nations people are no longer left behind.
“I want to see this happen in my lifetime, for my children, for my Elders, for my mob, for every First Nations person and for every Australian. We must not squander this moment.
“The Greens were the first party to support the Uluru Statement from the Heart in full. The first step is a successful Yes at the Referendum in October.”