As a supporter of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament as an important mechanism for self-determination of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, SGCH is disappointed that the referendum was not successful, however we respect that a majority of Australians did not agree that this was the way forward. It is a great strength of our Australian democracy that members of the community can hold different views and we continue to support respectful discussion of the big questions facing our nation. 

SGCH remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering reconciliation, inclusivity, and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our organisation is developing our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to further guide our efforts to build respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and and close the gap.

SGCH is strongly committed to practical action through our role as a community housing provider to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to build physical, cultural, spiritual, and family wellbeing with the foundation of a safe and affordable home.  We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will remain at a structural disadvantage to non-Indigenous Australians without tailored reforms to the nation’s housing system.

We accept that we have much to learn, more actions to take, and we are committed to listen to and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. SGCH recognises the important contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make, and the need to deliver responsive services that reflect and improve the diversity and needs of their communities.

The referendum outcome underscores the importance of persistent effort in the pursuit of meaningful change.

Together, we will continue to work towards a more inclusive and equitable Australia.

The artwork pictured is ‘Connected Communities’, created by Samsep artist Alysha Menzel and commissioned by SGCH.