Aboriginal Australians soon to gain constitutional recognition

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has promised a referendum to mark Aboriginal representation in the constitution. Rudd says it is important to recognize indigenous Australians for reconciliation and vows to keep struggling for them if Labor is re-elected.

“No more delays, no more excuses, no more buck-passing. It’s time the nation got on with this business… I therefore as Prime Minister want to see this matter brought to the people of Australia by referendum within two years of the election of the next parliament,” he said.

The premier was speaking at the 50^th anniversary of two bark petitions at Yirrkala in Arnhem Land. Joining hands with Rudd, the Coalition has also pledged to constitutional recognition of indigenous people.

On the contrary, Opposition leader Tony Abbott has accused the new premier of using the problems of indigenous people to play politics. Rudd has urged Abbott to clearly state his stand on the matter so he can pursue with the referendum process.

“The Aboriginal people are waiting for this. But frankly the ball lies in his (Abbott) court. It really does,” Rudd added.

Responding to Rudd’s urgency, Abbott fired back saying that the Coalition clearly understands his position and together they will work towards constitutional recognition of the indigenous. In case the Coalition wins the upcoming election, Abbott has promised to submit a draft constitutional amendment within 12 months.

“I do not want to politicize this. I really don’t… And I’m surprised that Mr Rudd is trying to do that. Let’s face it – the government has been sitting on its hands here. The government was very slow in bringing this thing forward,” Abbott said.