The disappointing Referendum outcome follows a corrosive misinformation campaign emboldened by Peter Dutton, say the Greens, and demonstrates the urgent need for truth-telling in the pursuit of First Nations justice.
Greens MPs were unanimous in their support for the Voice to Parliament Referendum. Across the country, Greens MPs joined door knocks, rallies, phone banks and events alongside First Nations campaigners, communities and MPs from across the political spectrum. Federal Greens offices supported the YES23 campaign with volunteer recruitment, resources and materials.
Contrary to the national result, the four Greens-held electorates: Melbourne, Griffith, Brisbane and Ryan, are all predicted to return a solid Yes result. Adam Bandt’s electorate, Melbourne, is on track to return the highest Yes vote in the country.
Greens Leader Adam Bandt MP said:
“Today is a very hard day, and Greens MPs across the country share in the disappointment of this moment,” said Mr Bandt.
“This outcome follows a Trumpian campaign of misinformation led by Peter Dutton. Peter Dutton’s Liberals ran a corrosive misinformation campaign that fuelled division and fear.
“The referendum campaign clearly demonstrates the need for truth-telling about our history and the impact of colonisation on First nations people.
“To fully advance First Nations justice in this country, we need to work together to understand the truth about the past. We need to have honest conversations about our history, about the violence, the dispossession, and the systems and institutions that continue to disempower First Nations people today, so we can move forward together.
“For those who are feeling a sense of loss, we say to you: the pathway to First Nations justice does not end today, and the Greens will not stop fighting.
“The Greens secured money in the last Federal budget for a Makarrata Commission and we will be fighting to advance Truth and Treaty.”
Greens portfolio holder for First Nations, Senator Dorinda Cox said:
“I want to acknowledge the many First Nations Elders, mob and allies across this country who stayed strong and resilient in this fight, for generations. You led a national conversation this year that will change this country’s future for the better,” said Senator Cox.
“There is formidable strength here. We cannot relent. We must use the momentum of this national conversation to keep fighting.
“Dangerous rhetoric was amplified during the campaign, led by high profile conservative figures like the Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. We could not have an honest conversation about First Nations justice in this campaign.
“This nation needs to have an honest and informed discussion about its history so we can speak the truth, heal and move forward together. We need Truth Telling, as well as Treaties built on the recognition of our inherent sovereignty.
“The Greens are committed to the ongoing fight for transformative change; for justice, self-determination and Sovereignty through truth-telling and Treaty, implementation of UNDRIP, protecting Country, heritage, languages and culture.”