Australians have six weeks to make a decision on the voice. It needs to be based on facts, not fear

The referendum on an Indigenous voice to parliament has consequences far beyond immediate partisan advantage. Voters should hear the arguments on the proposition before them, not on slogans and memes

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

A year ago opinion polls showed the Indigenous voice referendum had overwhelming voter approval.

Now, as the prime minister names the referendum date, the modest proposal – that Indigenous Australians be recognised in the constitution and empowered to advise policymakers on issues affecting them – is tangled in polarising attacks and unrelated allegations that threaten to derail decades of work towards reconciliation.

Sign up for a weekly email featuring our best reads

Continue reading…