Matt Burnell (Spence, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In 1967, 56 years ago, the people of Australia went to a vote—a vote to give First Nations people the right to be counted in our census. Later this year we will go to another important vote—a vote to give First Nations people a voice to parliament and, very importantly, constitutional recognition.

Now, over the weekend I thought that we might come back reinvigorated and in a much better spirit. Unfortunately, over the last hour or so, in the lead-up to questions, the same old, same old comes from those opposite, and it's absolutely abhorrent dog whistling: 'It's okay. We see you First Nations people. We see you, but you do not have a right to be heard. No'—hands over ears—'you will not be heard.' Seriously, take a good look at yourselves in the mirror.

At the end of this year, on the back of the leadership of the Prime Minister of Australia leading this country to the most reformative vote in the last 67 years, it will be a time for judgement. And you will be judged. You'll be judged at the next election on the way that you speak in this chamber about this referendum. So just remember that when you take the call later today. (Time expired)

Milton Dick (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.