Indigenous Rights in Australia: A Struggle Upended by Setbacks

Setback for Indigenous Rights in Australia

Government Should Look to First Nations Communities for Next Steps

Daniela Gavshon

Australia Director

@dgavshon

October 14, 2023 | Australia’s referendum to enshrine a First Nations voice in the country’s constitution was unsuccessful. But the spotlight remains on the Australian government to ensure First Nations people’s rights to self-determination, and full and effective participation are properly realized.

Establishing an Indigenous Voice to parliament was put to a vote on October 14, 2023, as constitutional amendments in Australia must be decided by a referendum. Many Indigenous Australians campaigned for a “yes” vote, hoping it would deliver better outcomes for their communities, which continue to face disproportionately high rates of incarceration and other systemic socioeconomic disadvantages due to the legacies of colonialism.

The Voice is a proposed advisory body, made of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who would advise the Australian parliament and the government on issues that affect them. First Nations people had called for the Voice through the Uluru Statement from the Heart, following extensive consultation. Human Rights Watch supported the Voice as an important way to ensure self-determination for First Nations people in Australia.

While the results are disappointing for many First Nations people in Australia, the “no vote” does not diminish their rights as Indigenous people, which the Australian government has a continued responsibility to uphold. In deciding next steps, the Australian government should prioritize the views of Indigenous communities.

The Responsibility to Uphold Indigenous Rights

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which was endorsed by Australia in 2009, recognizes that Indigenous people have the right to participate in decision-making in matters that would affect their rights, and that governments should consult with Indigenous people before making laws that affect them.

It is a blight on Australia’s history that successive governments of various political persuasions have failed to uphold the rights of First Nations people. The failure to enshrine an Indigenous Voice in the constitution is yet another example of this ongoing neglect. The Australian government must recognize the importance of self-determination and meaningful participation for Indigenous communities if it seeks to rectify the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples.

A Step Towards Reconciliation

Reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians is an essential goal for the nation. It requires acknowledging past wrongs, promoting healing, and building meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. The establishment of an Indigenous Voice in parliament is a crucial step towards achieving this goal.

This setback in the constitutional referendum does not mean that reconciliation efforts should end. On the contrary, it should serve as a wake-up call for the Australian government to redouble its efforts to address the historical and ongoing injustices faced by First Nations people.

Consulting Indigenous Communities

The Australian government must now engage directly with Indigenous communities to determine the next steps in advancing Indigenous rights. Indigenous communities possess a wealth of knowledge and insights that can guide the development of effective policies and initiatives.

It is imperative that the government prioritizes Indigenous voices and ensures they are heard in decision-making processes. The rights and interests of Indigenous people must be at the forefront of any actions taken by the Australian government going forward.

A Call for Action

The failed referendum should not discourage ongoing efforts to address the inequalities faced by Indigenous communities. It is a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve justice and equality.

Individuals, organizations, and the wider public must continue to advocate for Indigenous rights and support initiatives aimed at rectifying historical injustices. By raising awareness, providing resources, and actively engaging in dialogue, we can collectively work towards a more equitable and inclusive Australia.

It is crucial that the Australian government takes this setback as an opportunity to learn from the past and forge a new path towards a more inclusive and just society for all Australians.

Resilience-aboriginalrights,indigenousculture,landrights,reconciliation,stolengeneration,self-determination,treaty,discrimination,socialjustice,indigenousactivism