Voice Submission
Reconciliation Queensland Incorporated (RQI) is pleased to take this opportunity to make a submission to this
important public process, and to support the work of the eminent members of the Senior Advisory Group.
About Us
RQI supports volunteers involved in a wide array of activities that engage Queenslanders in conversations
about reconciliation. RQI’s vision is one of an equitable and informed Queensland, which recognises a shared
past and respects Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first Australians.
Introduction
RQI recognises the profound importance of the Uluru Statement from the Heart in this process. It is the most
significant call for reform, from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, that we have seen in decades. The
Uluru Statement calls for the constitutional enshrinement of the Voice to Parliament. Without this key
component, RQI is concerned that there would be no meaningful reform, and no iron-clad promise that things
will be different than in the past.
Many non-constitutional Indigenous assemblies have come and gone. we need one with staying power to
guide our nation on its journey toward reconciliation, and toward a closed gap in policy outcomes for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Constitution is the place where we make binding promises to
each other about the way power is exercised. Indigenous people need a guaranteed seat at the table of power,
both in the interest of fairness and to improve outcomes.
Our submission is brief, because it focuses on this one policy point: this change must be constitutionally
enshrined, or this expensive and time-consuming exercise will accomplish nothing of enduring value.
Our submission
1. The government must honour its election commitment to a referendum once the model for the Voice has
been settled;
2. Enabling legislation for the Voice must be passed after a referendum has been held in the next term of
Parliament; and
3. The membership model for the National Voice must ensure previously unheard Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander people have the same chance of being selected as established leadership figures.
Thank you
Peter Jackson, Co-Chair Leon Filewood, Co-Chair
