Justin Mohamed, CEO of Reconciliation Australia said the discussions today were positive and respectful, and have set a pathway towards progressing Constitutional Recognition.

“We recognise that much work needs to be done to achieve a Constitution that is meaningful and inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

“True recognition can only be achieved with a deep and broad conversation with all Australians.”

Reconciliation Australia believes it is incumbent upon Australia’s leaders to ensure that there is a continued dialogue to reach an agreement for concrete proposals of reform which can garner widespread support.

Mr Mohamed said, “It is critical that there is an ongoing conversation and plan of action, which is progressed in a non-partisan manner. We support the development of a Referendum Council as a means of facilitating such dialogue. We hope this Council will be the conduit to enable Australians to discuss and progress a range of issues around Constitutional Recognition and we would welcome the opportunity to participate in the work of the Council.

“We look forward to working in collaboration with the government, the parliament, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all Australians to build the consensus necessary to progress the nation towards a successful referendum and the best outcomes for reconciliation,” said Mr Mohamed.

Constitutional Recognition has been a much sought after milestone on Australia’s reconciliation journey for many years. Australia needs to fix the historical exclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from Australia’s Constitution—the nation’s ‘rule book’ and founding document.

Reconciliation Australia supports a model for Constitutional Recognition that is legitimate, meaningful and capable of achieving the strongest possible support across the nation.

A successful referendum to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the constitution has the potential to unify Australia like never before.