Indigenous Voice in Australia’s Constitution Not Permanent, Says Experts
Experts have refuted the claim that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, if enshrined in the Australian Constitution, would be permanent and could only grow stronger over time. They stated that the Indigenous voice could be removed through another referendum and that its strength would be determined by its usefulness and the government’s response.
The claim, made in a Facebook video post, argues that once the Indigenous voice is put into the constitution, it cannot be voted out and will only become stronger. However, constitutional law experts have contradicted these assertions. They explain that the voice can be removed through a referendum, just as it can be established through one.
Furthermore, the claim suggests that the advisory body can only become stronger over time. But experts clarify that the power and influence of the Indigenous voice are set by the proposed constitutional amendment. Parliament would have the authority to legislate the voice’s composition, functions, powers, and procedures. Hence, the claim that the voice can only become stronger is false since Parliament holds the power to limit or enhance its powers and functions.
Constitutional law experts also emphasize that the voice’s influence would largely depend on the quality and usefulness of its representations, as well as the government’s response. The voice’s parameters are outlined in the constitutional amendment, specifically its ability to make representations on matters concerning Indigenous people. However, the voice’s strength can be amended through another referendum.
In conclusion, the idea that the Indigenous voice in Australia’s Constitution is permanent and can only become stronger over time has been debunked by experts in constitutional law. They clarify that the voice could be removed through a referendum and its powers can be altered by Parliament. The voice’s long-term influence would also depend on the effectiveness of its representations and the responsiveness of future Parliaments and Executives.
