2023-10-14
Despite indicative results of no vote for constitutional recognition of First Nations people and a Voice body in Australia, the NSW Greens remain steadfast and committed to a Truth and Treaty process in NSW. The referendum has caused untold hurt to First Nations communities and action on state-based treaties remains the priority for the Greens under the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) to achieve self-determination.
Greens MP and spokesperson for First Nations Justice, Sue Higginson said “The indicative results from today’s referendum show that there is much more work to be done by non-First Nations Australians when it comes to achieving justice in this Country, and in NSW,”
“Allies of the First Nations of Australia remain committed to the fight for First Nations Justice and in NSW the Greens will be calling on the Government to get on with establishing a Treaty process to resolve historical wrongs against Australia’s first people,”
“The role that disinformation, and outright lies, have played in the referendum is deeply disturbing. I sincerely believe that the majority of Australians, in the majority of states, believe in an honest commitment to justice with First Nations people. This result does not reflect this Country and NSW that I know,”
“The Greens will not stop campaigning and supporting State and Federal bodies that are independent from colonial systems and that are reflective of Sovereign First Nations voices in this Country. The allies of First Nations Australia are ready to continue this campaign and will not stop until Truth and Treaty are a reality in NSW and this Country,”
“To all of the mob out there, please hear us when we say that you are not alone and that the rights of Australia’s First People are important. Tomorrow is the beginning of the next fight and we are here for you and all fair-minded Australians," Ms Higginson said.
For media contact call Sue Higginson 0428 227 363