SAHMRI statement on referendum result

SAHMRI’s leadership, including our Indigenous Collective, is disappointed that our nation has rejected an opportunity to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Australian Constitution while including provision for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

The No result demonstrates the need for further truth-telling among us Australians, to acknowledge and understand our shared history and address the ongoing impacts of colonisation among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. While the referendum didn’t deliver the outcome many of our community hoped for, we should be encouraged that a large proportion of the Australian population agreed with the Voice proposal.

SAHMRI has always valued involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in decisions that affect their health and wellbeing as imperative to closing the gap in health and social outcomes. That is the very essence of the SA Aboriginal Health Research Accord which guides our Aboriginal health activities. We have seen the positive outcomes this delivers.

SAHMRI will continue to do research and translation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to address topics of importance to them. We acknowledge our ability to achieve positive outcomes is realised through our relationships with our diverse partners. We look forward to continuing and strengthening our work together to accelerate improved outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.