AUSTRALIA will hold a historic Indigenous rights referendum on October 14, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said today, setting up a defining moment in the nation’s relationship with its Aboriginal minority.

“On that day, every Australian will have a once-in-a-generation chance to bring our country together, and you change it for the better,” Albanese said as he locked in the date for the binding vote.

“I ask all Australians to vote yes.”

If passed, Indigenous Australians – whose ancestors have lived on the continent for at least 60,000 years – would be recognised in the Constitution for the first time.

They would also gain a constitutionally enshrined right to be consulted on laws that impact their communities, the so-called “Voice to Parliament”. 

With the “yes” campaign trailing in the polls, there are fears that a failed referendum could damage inter-race relations, tarnish Australia’s global reputation and squander a once-in-a-generation chance to reduce pervasive inequality. – AFP, August 30, 2023.