Faculty of Science statement on the Voice to Parliament

As we approach the historic Voice to Parliament Referendum, it is timely that we provide you with a statement from the Faculty of Science outlining our position, that has been endorsed by both the Indigenous Strategy & Services and Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee, and the Dean’s Executive Committee.  This statement is the result of a working group consultation with input from our Indigenous colleagues and to them we express our sincere thanks.

The Faculty of Science research and teaching sites are situated on the lands of the Barkindji, Bundjalung, Burramadagal, Darkinyung, Dharawal, Dharug, Gagadju, Gadigal, Gamaraygal, Gamilaraay, Gandangara, Gureng Gureng, Ngunnawal, Wangal and Wiradyuri Peoples, who have cared for Country across thousands of generations and continue to do so.

The Faculty recognises the deep knowledge passed down through generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and we embrace this knowledge in our teaching and research practices. In a path towards reconciliation and a more inclusive society, we commit to embedding Indigenous science knowledges and research methodologies in our teaching and research practices.

We support a genuinely independent and democratic voice with constitutional authority to make and receive representations to the government of the day. We believe the proposed amendment to the Australian constitution is a fundamental step towards truth-telling, reconciliation, decolonisation, First Nations self-determination and the recognition of sovereignty. It is a necessary response to the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

We encourage students and colleagues to be informed on this important upcoming referendum and to discuss its outcomes for our nation over the coming weeks openly, thoughtfully, and respectfully. There are many helpful resources available at: https://ulurustatement.org/ and https://www.yes23.com.au/