VIC Councils react to referendum results

Two Councils in Victoria have commented on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum result. 

City of Greater Dandenong 

Greater Dandenong City Council said they continue to stand in solidarity with Traditional Custodians following the referendum decision on 14 October, with Council releasing the following statement. 

“Our thoughts are with the First Nations people during this challenging time,” a spokesperson for the Council said in a media release. 

“As the most culturally diverse city in Australia, respect for other cultures is a core value of everyday life in Greater Dandenong and Council is committed to the ongoing process of reconciliation and helping to close the gaps in the outcomes that still exist for our First Nations people. “

The City of Greater Dandenong Council said that it recognises the strong connection First Nations people have to the land and waters, and are dedicated to embedding reconciliation across Council, including in policy, business and community structures, as outlined in its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2021-23. 

Council said that it will continue to show respect and acknowledgement for the oldest living culture in the world, and ensure its workplace remains culturally safe for people of all backgrounds, asking its community to keep acting with compassion and kindness during this time. 

City of Ballarat

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson, said Council acknowledges the outcome and recognises and values the work and teachings of First Nations communities and people, and will remain committed to emphasising ways to improve quality of life for all its residents. 

“We have seen in the lead up to the result of this vote the impact on individuals and communities and it is very important that we are considerate of one another,” Mayor Hudson said. 

“We are especially mindful of First Nations people in our community and the need to extend respect and kindness both now and in the weeks ahead.

“Our focus as a Council continues to be at a local level, including supporting the work of our Koori Engagement Action Group, finalising our fourth Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025, which outlines the organisation’s commitment to supporting the reconciliation process and continuing to mark significant dates on our annual calendar such as NAIDOC Week and National Sorry Day, which educates the community and celebrates the contributions of our First Nations people.”

Featured image: Indigenous community members. Image: City of Ballarat.