The Voice to Parliament
It’s time to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Constitution.
The Directors of Connect consider support for The Voice to Parliament is consistent with Connect’s objects and have resolved to publicly advocate for this change to occur.
Connect is primarily funded by two grants: the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and the Community Transport Program [CTP] (NSW Government). While the CHSP supports people over 65 years of age, indigenous people can access support under the CHSP from the age of 50. Similarly, the CTP is targeted at those under 65 who have ‘transport disadvantage’… with indigenous people specifically identified as disadvantaged.
It is clear in the way these programs are targeted, that indigenous people are disadvantaged relative to the general population. The disadvantage in health outcomes is quite stark in the eligibility for the CHSP program: 15 years.
From the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Indigenous people have proposed a Voice to Parliament which will make representations to the Parliament and the Executive Government of the Commonwealth on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
With the recent change of Government, a referendum to change the constitution to try and do this will now proceed later this year.
As an incorporated association, Connect has stated organisational objects to guide its work. Connect’s first object is to “meet the needs of [transport] disadvantaged people – particularly the aged and people with disabilities”.
“In a just, equitable and reconciled Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will have the same life chances and choices as non-Indigenous children, and the length and quality of a person’s life will not be determined by their racial background.”
Reconciliation Australia
The Directors of Connect consider support for The Voice to Parliament is consistent with Connect’s objects and have resolved to publicly advocate for this change to occur.
It’s time.