On 14 October, a referendum will be held in Australia that asks the public whether to alter the Constitution to establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.
Whether you’ve decided Yes or No, or you’re still undecided, it’s important you’re equipped with factual, objective information to inform your decision before you cast your vote.
The Voice to Parliament at a glance
Medibank's vision is to achieve the best health and wellbeing for Australia. Integral to this vision is reconciliation and equity in health and wellbeing outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. We have long supported self-determination for Australia’s First peoples and community-led health initiatives that support better health outcomes for First Nations Australians. We support a First Nations Voice to shape decisions that impact the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
There are many other resources that exist around the Voice. While not an exhaustive list, the below is a good starting point for people looking to learn more.
Understanding more about the referendum
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has put together information about the upcoming referendum. It includes a Stop and Consider Factsheet which discusses how to be a critical thinker when consuming information and thinking about whether the information is accurate and truthful.
Informing yourself of the facts
The Australian Government has compiled helpful resources to help you learn what the Voice will do and how it will be set up. These resources are designed to inform you about the Voice and be shared among your community to start conversations. Dedicated First Nations resources, translated resources and accessible formats such as Auslan interpreted videos are all included.
Busting myths and misconceptions
There is a lot of misinformation out there surrounding the Voice. Shelley Reys (Arrilla), who has three decades of leadership in cultural competency training and consulting, breaks down the most common myths and misconceptions surrounding the Voice.