Federal Member for Maribyrnong, Bill Shorten, today encouraged people in the electorate of Maribyrnong to show their support for Indigenous Constitutional recognition.



The Australian Government yesterday received the expert panel’s report on the recognition of Indigenous people in the Australian Constitution.

Over the past year, a panel of Indigenous and community leaders, constitutional law experts and parliamentary members have led wide-ranging national public consultations to develop options to recognise the special place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution.

The Government will now carefully consider the panel’s recommendations before determining the best way forward.

“Constitutional recognition of Indigenous people, here in Maribyrnong and right around Australia, is a significant step towards building a nation based on strong relations and mutual respect,” Mr Shorten said.

“We asked the panel to tour the country and talk with people about how we can best recognise our first peoples in our founding document. The panellists also started the task of building support for this change – something that now rests with all of us.”

Mr Shorten said local people can show their support for constitutional recognition by joining the ‘You Me Unity’ campaign at www.youmeunity.org.au.

“You can have a look at the panel’s report, learn more about constitutional recognition and register your support.

“We don’t underestimate the challenge of achieving consensus for change. But that change can start right here in Maribyrnong.

“I want to thank all the panel members for their dedication and effort over the past year, as well as everyone who attended a meeting, made a submission or simply went online and showed their support.”

Suburbs in the Maribyrnong electorate include: Aberfeldie, Airport West, Albion, Avondale Heights, Brooklyn (part), Essendon, Essendon North, Essendon West, Kealba, Keilor East, Keilor Park, Maribyrnong (part), Moonee Ponds, Niddrie, St Albans (part), Sunshine, Sunshine North and Tullamarine (part).

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Media Contact: Kieran Barns-Jenkins (03) 9326 1300