Julia Mooney
Q 4561
To whom it may concern
Co-design process: Submission for Julia Mooney
I'm a non-Indigenous Australian who grew up on the lands of the Turrbul and Jagera
peoples, in Meanjin (Brisbane). I now live on Gubbi Gubbi country, on the Sunshine
Coast. I work for the Queensland Government, and previously studied Engineering,
Business Management and Environmental Management at the University of
Queensland.
Why do you think the Uluru Statement from the Heart is important?
The Uluru Statement from the Heart is important because it clearly shows us how the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this land would like to the recognised,
the role they want to play in this nation. It provides a clear invitation and path to walk
together as Australians to a better and brighter future. The statement says "This is the
torment of our powerlessness." We have an amazing opportunity to empower Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander peoples, to create a better future for their communities and for
all Australians. To end this torment.
Why is it important for Indigenous people to have a say in the matters that affect them?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should have the opportunity to have a say
in the matters that affect them. Although we can try, non-Indigenous peoples can never
fully understand and appreciate the struggles and issues Indigenous peoples face. We
cannot create effective and meaningful solutions without Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples leading and developing solutions. Who better to understand the
matters that effect Indigenous peoples, than the peoples themselves?
Why do you think it's important to enshrine the Voice to Parliament in the Constitution,
rather than include it only in legislation?
A Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Constitution means empowering Indigenous
peoples to have a direct say in laws and policies, in conditions that enable certainty,
durability and more long-term planning. Indigenous peoples cannot remain a political
football. This certainty for the future is necessary for sustainable, effective, long-term
outcomes.
How could a Voice to Parliament improve the lives of your community?
A Voice to Parliament will enable effective programs and solutions to address the issues
faced by Indigenous peoples. As the Uluru Statement from the Heart says, "When we
have power over our destiny our children will flourish. They will walk in two worlds and
their culture will be a gift to their country." Furthermore, all Australians stand to benefit
from a Voice to Parliament, to create a better and brighter Australia. When all citizens
have the opportunity to flourish the entire nation benefits.
Thank you,
Julia Mooney
