Statement of Support for a First Nations Voice to Parliament

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health strongly supports a First Nations Voice to Parliament.  As a local community-controlled health and community service organisation we understand the importance of communities having a say about decisions that affect them. We know that when individuals, families and communities are empowered and included we strengthen our social fabric and achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes for all.

The aim of the Voice is to provide an important mechanism through which First Nations views and aspirations can be included in decision making. Enshrining the Voice in the Australian Constitution will acknowledge the unique position that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders people hold as the First Peoples of this nation. The Uluru Statement from the Heart is an invitation to walk with First Nations communities towards voice, truth and treaty. The Voice to Parliament is an important step, we look forward to the implementation of this statement in full as a further commitment towards reconciliation.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health is proud and honoured to work alongside Aboriginal people as they continue to lead improvements in health and wellbeing for their communities. We will continue to listen to and be informed by Aboriginal voices as we make decisions about the types of services and programs we provide. In 2023 we will finalise our first Reconciliation Action Plan to further demonstrate the organisation’s deep commitment to reconciling with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health recognises that there are many different views across communities and the political nature of the Voice and a referendum may be challenging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and clients, we will do our best to support those affected during this time.