Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the First Australians, but make up less than 3% of the population.

Because our parliamentary system relies on a majority vote, it can be hard for First Australians to influence laws and policies that are made about them. Including those that Parliament makes specifically about First Peoples, such as those protecting Aboriginal heritage and land rights.

So one proposal is to create a First Peoples body – to connect community and government, consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and advise Parliament and government on laws and policies affecting them.

A body written into the Constitution would be more permanent, and have greater authority than one set up in law.

It could give First Australians a stronger voice in decisions made about them, and help set up a fairer relationship between Australia’s First Peoples and Government. 

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