Updated: Oct 17
13 October 2023: Missed the show? Listen back here.
The referendum is right on our doorstep, and BEAM committee members Tim Budge and Peter Lockyer look at the upside of a YES Voice to Parliament.
The Uluru Statement is an invitation, and the 3 point strategy starts with recognition of First Nations people with a direct Voice to Parliament on issues affecting indigenous Australians - in health, education, housing and justice. The structure of this Voice is in the parliaments hands. Parliament may not even listen let alone act.
Pat Dodson at the National Press Club on Wednesday says “there’s nothing to fear”. Tim and Peter agree, but can a voice really make a difference?
Listeners are invited to text your thoughts in on 0412 051 574 and we’ll discuss these On Air.
Peter Lockyer has considerable experience working in Aboriginal communities in remote Australia, and will share some success stories, and some failures. “It’s all about bottom up if you want success in this challenging cross cultural environment”. There are some good stories of effective services and funding efficiency. And some not-so-good.
But that’s the remote context. Though the urban context is better serviced, the fundamentals remain the same.
Tim has spent time working in Zambia, and reflects on the commonality with Western models of governance working with indigenous peoples with a strong relationship to their land. “It’s about the listening” says Tim. Again, it’s building from the local perspective, if it is heard at all.
What does success look like in all of this?
And Taungurung Land and Water Council supports the Voice. What is their perspective?
Peter and Tim on EarthChat this Friday. Is the referendum is a big opportunity, or is it “herding cats”.
EarthChat on 103.9 Seymour FM this Friday at 10am, and repeated Saturday at 8am.
Lend us your ear.
Noel Pearson at Uluru and the end of Ex Liberal MP Pat Farmer's Run for Yes
Tune in to BEAM's radio program EarthChat each Friday on Seymour FM at 10am, repeated at 8am Saturday.
Return to this page for a link to the podcast after the program.