Australians are determined to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, regardless of the outcome of the voice referendum. The proposal to establish an Indigenous advisory body in the constitution was rejected by the nation, with a clear ‘no’ vote, despite strong support in areas with significant First Nations populations such as the Kimberley, Tiwi Islands, and remote parts of the country. Some Indigenous community groups are calling for a period of mourning in response to the referendum’s outcome. Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged their disappointment and emphasized the need to respect Australia’s choice.
In a statement to reporters in Perth on October 20, Mr. Albanese stated, “We respect the outcomes in our democracy and I have done that. While Australians did not vote in favor of the referendum, Australians do want to see the gap closed. They want to see disadvantage dealt with in Indigenous communities, and we’ll continue to work in this area and in health, life expectancy, in community services, in all of these areas with the programs we have.” The prime minister stressed the importance of incorporating First Nations perspectives in future government initiatives, recognizing that previous administrations have struggled to bridge the gap and that the most effective programs are those that involve Indigenous Australians on the ground.
To support this goal, the federal government has allocated over $200 million (US$126 million) as part of its skills and apprenticeships package, aimed at up-skilling Indigenous Australians. The opposition has called for a royal commission to address sexual abuse in Indigenous communities, but the prime minister stated that while addressing abuse is crucial, the government will not initiate a royal commission. The referendum on the Indigenous voice to parliament resulted in a 61 percent ‘no’ vote and a 39 percent ‘yes’ vote.