House debates

Monday, 27 March 2023

Statements by Members

Australian Constitution: Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Voice

1:52 pm

Photo of Josh BurnsJosh Burns (Macnamara, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Let's stop pretending. This Leader of the Opposition is the leader of the 'no' campaign in the upcoming referendum. He says no, but Australia will say yes. This Leader of the Opposition does not have questions. All he has are political tactics that are aimed at undermining reconciliation. This Leader of the Opposition walked out on the national apology and now he's walking out on the Voice. He is not seeking to engage in good faith; he is seeking to tear down. But Australia will see through his political games.

Australia's heart is too big for this Leader of the Opposition. Australia's heart is big enough to know that the time has come to recognise our first people in our Constitution. Australia's heart is big enough to know that First Nations people deserve a say in the matters that affect them. Australia's heart is big enough to answer the Uluru Statement from the Heart. The Leader of the Opposition is stuck holding onto the dregs of the Morrison government, but Australia has moved on. Australia will wake up the day after this referendum a more united, inclusive and big-hearted country, and standing alone by himself will be that Leader of the Opposition. It is time to say yes even if the Leader of the Opposition says no.