headspace supports changing the Constitution to recognise First Nations people as this country's First People, and to establish an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
We believe an Indigenous Voice to Parliament would mark an important step towards addressing injustices experienced by First Nations people in Australia.
Our decision is anchored in our ongoing commitment to listen, learn and grow, and to be part of a more inclusive and equitable Australia.
What we have learned from our ongoing conversations with community-controlled health services, Aboriginal-led organisations and First Nations young people is a very strong message that self-determination is core to closing the gap - and supporting the Voice to Parliament is a step towards this.
We acknowledge that there are diverse views within Australian communities about the proposed constitutional change.
headspace encourages all Australians to engage in informed, respectful discussions about an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
Sadly, First Nations young people have reported more experiences of racism during this debate.
Racism must never be tolerated.
As a mental health organisation, we understand the ways racism affects the social and emotional wellbeing of First Nations young people.
We stand in solidarity with First Nations young people and their communities, and stand ready to support them - in the days leading up to the referendum, and into the future.
