Disclaimer: Far West Community Partnerships does not endorse either the 'Yes' or 'No' campaigns, the purpose of sharing this information is to provide individuals with the opportunity to gain and understanding of the context and the key points from both campaigns to make an informed decision when voting in the referendum.

Overview

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The main arguments for the 'Yes' campaign are on the basis that constitutional amendment and the Voice will contribute to a better future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and all Australians. The key points underpinning this are:

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• Recognition: Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our Constitution and paying respect to 65,000 years of culture and tradition.

• Listening: Listening to advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about matters that affect their lives, so governments can make better decisions.

• Better Results: Making practical progress in Indigenous health, education, employment and housing, so people have a better life.

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Recognition

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One case for the yes campaign is that constitutional recognition is an important part of paying respect to 65,000 years of culture and tradition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This is because the proposed amendment will be 'Chapter IX Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples - Section 129 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.' and will begin with 'In recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia'. It is also the belief of the yes campaign that this will send a powerful message to the world about Australia's unity and celebrate our shared history.

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Listening

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Many in support of the yes campaign believe listening to advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about matters that affect them is the best way for the government to make decision that will have better outcomes. The consensus is listening to people on the ground is the best approach for tackling issues.

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Better Results

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The Voice will consult on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. A lot of the yes campaign talks about closing the gap, and how current strategies aren't working. Some of the biggest challenges facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people include:

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• A life expectancy 8 years shorter than non-Indigenous Australia.

• Worse rate of disease and infant mortality.

• A suicide rate twice as high.

• Fewer opportunities for education and training.

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Many in favour of the yes vote believe in order to find solutions to these issues and plan for the future, we need to listen to advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about issues affecting their lives and communities. The Voice would consult on topics such as education, employment and health. Furthermore, having the Voice enshrined in the constitution would ensure the body will be able to make a long-term impact.

Read the official Yes/No campaign pamphlet from the AEC here