The exact wording on the question that Australia will be voting on for a constitutionally enshrined Indigenous voice to parliament is expected to be known by June, according to a top minister from the Albanese government.
Speaking on ABC Radio Industrial Relations and Arts Minister Tony Burke highlighted that the process on finalising the question will come after the passing of legislation designed to modernise the referendum process.
“Once (both bills have passed), then the deadlines as to when the vote will happen are all locked in,” he said.
The wording of the question is expected to be similar to the draft question that was announced by Anthony Albanese at the Garma Festival last year, to which the Prime minister stated has had no recommendations for changes so far.
The draft question goes as follows.
- There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
- The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to Parliament and the Executive Government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
- The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to the composition, functions, powers and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
The latest news poll results showcase support for the voice standing at 56 per cent with the number of detractors standing at 37 per cent.
Both the Liberal and Greens parties are yet to announce a clear position on the referendum.
