Impact summary
Terms of Reference for the Inquiry:To inquire into and report on:
1. A Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples will inquire into and report on matters relating to constitutional change, and in conducting the inquiry, the committee:
a. consider the recommendations of the Referendum Council (2017), the Uluru Statement from the Heart (2017), the Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples (2015), and the Expert Panel on Constitutional Recognition of Indigenous Australians (2012);
b. examine the methods by which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are currently consulted and engaged on policies and legislation which affects them, and consider if, and how, self-determination can be advanced, in a way that leads to greater local decision making, economic advancement and improved social outcomes;
c. recommend options for constitutional change and any potential complementary legislative measures which meet the expectations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and which will secure cross party parliamentary support and the support of the Australian people;
d. ensure that any recommended options are consistent with the four criteria of referendum success set out in the Final Report of the Expert Panel on Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in the Constitution:
i. contribute to a more unified and reconciled nation;
ii. be of benefit to and accord with the wishes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples;
iii. be capable of being supported by an overwhelming majority of Australians from across the political and social spectrums; and
iv. be technically and legally sound;
v. engage with key stakeholders, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and organisations; and
vi. advise on the possible steps that could be taken to ensure the referendum has the best possible chance of success, including proposals for a constitutional convention or other mechanism for raising awareness in the broader community;
2. the committee present to Parliament an interim report on or before 30 July 2018 and its final report on or before 29 November 2018.
| Category of impact | Cultural Impact, Economic Impact, Public policy Impact, Quality of life Impact, Social Impact |
|---|