From the Bells of Democracy: Unraveling the Voice Referendum for Aussies

Politics Explainer: It’s Voice referendum day. What are we actually voting on?

Today, Australians are heading to the polling booths to vote in the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum. This referendum centers around whether or not to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the constitution. With competing claims, misinformation, and heated debate, many Australians may still be unsure about which way to vote. In this article, we will provide a breakdown of what the referendum is about, the arguments for and against a Voice, how to vote, and when we can expect the results.

What is the proposed Voice to Parliament?

The proposed Voice to Parliament is a body that would advise the government on issues that specifically impact First Nations Australians. It would not have the power to veto laws but would make representations to both the Australian parliament and executive government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The details of how the body would function would be worked out after the referendum, but some key points include fixed-term dates for members to ensure accountability, gender balance, inclusion of youth members, representation from all states and territories, and representatives from specific remote communities. It is still unclear whether the members would be democratically elected or appointed. The final form the Voice takes would be determined by parliament after a successful Yes vote.

Arguments for and against the proposed Voice to Parliament

Proponents of the proposed Voice argue that it would give Indigenous people a say in policies that directly impact them, leading to better outcomes in areas like health, housing, education, and employment. They believe that this representation is crucial for addressing the historical injustices and ongoing disparities faced by First Nations Australians.

Opponents of the Voice have differing views. Some argue that the proposal lacks detail and may have divisive outcomes. Others in the ‘progressive No’ camp argue that the proposal does not go far enough in addressing the structural issues facing Indigenous communities.

What is the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum question?

Australians will be asked to vote Yes or No to the following question: ‘A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognize the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?’

Common disinformation claims about the referendum

The lead-up to the referendum has been marred by disinformation about the voting process. One common claim is that the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is compromised by corruption, mismanagement, and bias, and that the referendum will be rigged. The AEC has refuted these claims, emphasizing its neutral role in administering elections to world-leading integrity standards. It has also clarified that the referendum will be run using the same infrastructure and processes as federal elections, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Another claim that has caused debate is the interpretation of ticks and crosses on the ballot paper. The AEC explains that it has followed legal advice regarding ticks and crosses on referendum ballot papers for over 30 years and that Parliament is ultimately responsible for setting how they are interpreted. The AEC has made no decision on the matter and emphasizes its commitment to conducting the referendum in a fair and unbiased manner.

When will we know the results of the referendum?

The counting process for the referendum is similar to that of votes for the House of Representatives in a federal election. Votes cast on the day of the referendum will be counted that night, along with most of the votes counted at early voting centers and a small number of postal votes. However, if the overall result is close, it might take up to 13 days after polling night for the final result to be known. The AEC will only declare the result when it is mathematically impossible for any other outcome to occur. Unofficial indicative results may be available on the night, depending on the margin. However, the AEC urges caution and emphasizes that the final result will be determined by the official count.

In conclusion, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum is an important moment for Australia to decide on the constitutional recognition of an Indigenous Voice. The arguments for and against the Voice reflect the ongoing discourse surrounding Indigenous rights and representation in the country. As Australians cast their ballots, it is crucial to consider the implications of this decision and its potential impact on the rights and voices of First Nations Australians.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the New York Times or any other organization.