Victorians voice their opinions on the Outcome of the Voice to Parliament Referendum

Victorians react to the Voice to Parliament referendum outcome

A Missed Opportunity for Australia’s International Standing

On Saturday night, Victorians responded to the outcome of the Voice to Parliament referendum with a mixture of disappointment, surprise, and frustration. The referendum, which aimed to establish a Voice to Parliament for Indigenous Australians, failed to gain enough support to pass. Aunty Jill Gallagher, the chief executive of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), expressed deep disappointment and stated that the result would lower Australia’s international standing. This sentiment highlights the importance of this referendum in addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities.

High expectations in Victoria dashed

Despite initial signs of strong support for the Voice to Parliament in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, Victoria ultimately became the fifth state to vote “No.” The result came as a surprise to many, including Jill Gallagher, who had believed that Victoria would support the referendum. The disappointment felt by Gallagher and other proponents of the Voice to Parliament is a reflection of the high expectations that were placed on this referendum. It was seen as a chance to bring about accountability and to make progress in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

A “missed chance” for Indigenous communities

The Voice to Parliament was seen by many as a mechanism to address the lack of progress in the “Close the Gap” initiative, which aims to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous Australians. The repeated failure to close this gap has created deep concern among Indigenous communities, who already experience high levels of trauma and depression. The disappointment expressed by Jill Gallagher and others reveals a sense of frustration at the lack of progress and the missed opportunity to bring about meaningful change through the Voice to Parliament.

The need for alternative mechanisms

In response to the referendum outcome, both Gallagher and Senator Lidia Thorpe, a leading No campaigner, called for alternative mechanisms for addressing the issues facing Indigenous communities. Gallagher emphasized the importance of finding a solution, even though she is unsure of what that mechanism should be. Thorpe emphasized the need for truth-telling and healing, suggesting that a treaty could be a way forward. These calls for alternative mechanisms highlight the ongoing importance of addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities and the need for further dialogue and action.

A message for political leaders

Marcus Stewart, a key Yes campaigner, acknowledged that while the majority of votes were against the Voice to Parliament, there were still a large number of people who voted Yes. He interpreted this as a clear message to political leaders that they need to do better for the Indigenous community. This sentiment underscores the need for political leaders to take immediate action to address the challenges faced by Indigenous communities, ensuring that they have a say in decisions that directly affect them. It is crucial for political leaders to listen to the concerns and aspirations of Indigenous communities and work towards policies that promote reconciliation and equity.

Editorial: Reflecting on the Outcome

The result of the Voice to Parliament referendum in Victoria reveals a complex and deeply divided nation. While many proponents of the Voice to Parliament express disappointment and frustration, the outcome does not necessarily indicate widespread racism or a lack of understanding of the issues faced by Indigenous communities. Instead, it highlights the complexity of the constitutional reform process and the need for alternative mechanisms for addressing historical injustices.

The Voice to Parliament referendum was an important opportunity to bring about accountability and progress in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. However, its failure to gain sufficient support should not be seen as an end to the conversation or a defeat for the aspirations of Indigenous communities. It should instead serve as a catalyst for further dialogue, action, and the exploration of alternative mechanisms.

As a nation, we must address the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities. We must listen to their voices, acknowledge their unique perspectives, and work together to find solutions that promote equity, reconciliation, and healing. The referendum outcome should not discourage us, but rather inspire us to continue striving for a more inclusive and just future for all Australians.

Advice for Moving Forward

The outcome of the Voice to Parliament referendum in Victoria should prompt a period of reflection for all Australians. It is crucial that we consider the voices and aspirations of Indigenous communities as we navigate the path forward.

First and foremost, political leaders at all levels must listen to the concerns and aspirations of Indigenous communities. They must engage in meaningful dialogue, ensuring that policies and decisions are made in collaboration with and for the benefit of those most affected.

Secondly, alternative mechanisms for addressing the issues faced by Indigenous communities need to be explored. The referendum outcome should not be seen as the end of the conversation, but rather as an opportunity to explore new avenues for change. A treaty, alternative forms of representation, and further truth-telling initiatives should be considered as viable options for addressing historical injustices.

Lastly, all Australians must educate themselves about the history, culture, and experiences of Indigenous communities. By better understanding the challenges they face, we can work towards dismantling systemic racism and building a more inclusive and equitable society.

Ultimately, the outcome of the Voice to Parliament referendum in Victoria serves as a reminder that the path to achieving true reconciliation and justice is not an easy one. However, by continuing the conversation, listening to Indigenous voices, and working collaboratively towards change, we can build a future that is inclusive, just, and respectful of the rights and aspirations of all Australians.