Chapter 14.4

Question 1

the 1967 referendum about first nations people

Answer 1

The 1967 referendum successfully amended the Constitution by removing Section 51(xxvi), which had excluded Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from laws made for all Australians, and repealing Section 127, which had excluded them from official population counts. These changes aimed to correct past injustices and ensure that laws and census counts included all Australians.

Question 2

legal and social ramifications of this refrendum

Answer 2

• legislative authority: The referendum gave the federal government the power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, allowing for more unified and effective national policies to address their issues, instead of leaving it to individual states.
• census inclusion: The constitutional amendment now includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the census, allowing for better data on their communities and helping to shape policies that meet their needs.
• symbolic recognition: The referendum was a major success, promoting unity, justice, and solidarity by removing discriminatory language from Australia’s Constitution. While it didn’t erase past injustices or the impact on the Stolen Generations, it strengthened Aboriginal activists and paved the way for future legal achievements, like the 1992 Mabo decision on land rights.

Question 3

the 2023 referendum of the voice of parliament

Answer 3

Unlike the successful 1967 referendum, the 2023 referendum failed despite a similar call for recognition and representation. The campaign struggled with unclear messaging about the proposed “Voice to Parliament,” leading to voter confusion and skepticism. Originating from the 2017 Uluru Statement, the proposal aimed to create a body to advise on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. With only about 40% voting ‘yes’ and a majority in ‘no’ states, the campaign’s lack of clear explanations and bipartisan support contributed to its failure. Misinformation and social media also fueled confusion. Future attempts at constitutional reform may take years, but advocacy for First Nations’ rights will continue.