Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Hansard source

In relation to Australia Day, it is not the policy of this government to change the date of Australia Day. I have talked with many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have very strong views about Australia Day similar to yours, Senator Thorpe. But the Voice will give advice. It is not a decision-making body. It's clear from the question we are putting to the Australian people and that the parliament has passed—the Senate passed it on Saturday morning—that the power of the parliament will not change. The Voice may give advice, but the parliament retains its primacy and the parliament will make laws.

We see huge benefits coming from having a voice that is advisory to speak directly to this parliament and the executive representing local First Nations communities about issues that they care deeply about and want to have a say about in terms of government decision-making. It is a positive change. It's a change that seeks to unite Australia, not divide Australia. We look forward to all Australians having the opportunity to vote— (Time expired)