Later this year, the 2023 Referendum will be held, calling for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament to be enshrined in the Constitution. The proposed outcome is to provide First Nations peoples with a strengthened voice on policy and legislation in areas that impact Australian First Nations communities. Since the announcement on 30 July 2022 by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, there has been much interest in what this change means for both First Nations peoples and our broader Australian population.

Universities are uniquely positioned to provide education that informs our communities about social and political issues. Regarding the 2023 referendum, Macquarie University is providing opportunities to promote and facilitate respectful discussions and considerations, in a culturally safe environment.

We are therefore proud to announce that a free microcredential module, An Indigenous Voice to Parliament, has been launched and is available for staff, students and members of the public.

On completion of the module, you will be able to:

• contextualise the Indigenous Voice to Parliament within the historical background of Indigenous advocacy and the ongoing pursuit of recognition and representation
• engage in discussions about the Uluru Statement from the Heart, by exploring and considering a diverse range of perspectives
• contribute to constructive and respectful dialogue regarding the Indigenous Voice to Parliament
• make an informed decision about an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

The University encourages staff to set aside 90 minutes in their work calendar during NAIDOC Week (2 to 9 July) to complete the module.

COMPLETE THE MIRCOCREDENTIAL

Staff and students: Enrol in iLearn
External audiences: Register for the module via Teche

The University will continue to provide opportunities for our community to engage in this important conversation including a Referendum Q&A on 24 July with Indigenous filmmaker Rachel Perkins and Macquarie University constitutional law expert Dr Shireen Morris.