Government response to the former Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Progress Report and Final Report

[Extract from response letter to President of the Senate]

Dear President

I am writing to convey the Government’s response to the former Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ Progress Report and Final Report, which predate the 47th Parliament.

The Government notes each recommendation in the reports. However, given the passage of time since the reports were tabled, substantive Government responses are no longer appropriate. I note that the Government delivered on its commitment to hold a referendum on constitutional recognition through an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice on 14 October 2023.

Please accept this letter as the Government’s response to the Progress Report and Final Report. A copy of this letter has also been provided to the Senior Clerk’s Office, which is responsible for the secretariat functions of the former Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. I have also copied this letter to the Hon Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In the event this letter is received when the Senate is not sitting, I note the presentation of this document is pursuant to Senate Standing Order 166.

Yours sincerely

[signature redacted]

Michelle Rowland MP