March 22nd 2023.
The federal government has finally come to a consensus with the Coalition, allowing the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum to officially be carried out. The Senate could potentially pass the legislation for the referendum as early as today, with the vote scheduled to take place between October to December of this year. This body would consist of approximately 20 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, having an even mix of genders and a Youth and Disability Advisory Group. To make amendments to the Constitution of Australia is a momentous occasion, as there have only been eight changes since 1901. "We are extremely grateful for the collaborative manner in which the government has interacted with the opposition," said Victorian Senator Jane Hume.
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The Coalition has declared that they will be in favour of the bill, with several conditions, such as donations to either side of the referendum being tax deductible, both sides of the debate receiving official pamphlets and an education campaign designed to be impartial with regards to the referendum. "We want the vote to be fair, not biased towards a yes or no," said Nationals leader David Littleproud.
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Labor has allocated $75 million for preparations for the referendum, with more funds set aside in the upcoming Budget in case it is necessary. The Greens and crossbench are being sidelined, as Labor does not need them to pass the bill, thus not considering any amendments proposed by them. "It is disheartening that the government has decided to not consider the amendments suggested by the crossbench and instead has focused on reaching an agreement with the opposition," said Greens Senator Larissa Waters.
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