A civics education campaign will be rolled out across the country ahead of the upcoming vote on enshrining an Indigenous voice to parliament in the constitution.
The government has put in place regulations detailing a $9.5 million public education campaign on the voice referendum, which is due to take place between October and December this year.
“A comprehensive civics education and awareness program is needed to ensure Australians understand the facts about the voice proposal and the referendum to make an informed choice,” an explanatory note attached to the new rules said.
“The program is needed because all Australians over the age of 18 who are qualified to vote are required to vote in a referendum.
“Voters should understand the referendum process and what is proposed.”
The civics campaign will be separate from measures being rolled out by the Australian Electoral Commission on telling people the process for casting their ballot in the referendum.
The program is set to focus on details about the constitution itself, how referendums are used to change the constitution and information about the voice.
The rollout of the campaign could begin as early as March.
The education program will be provided by a non-government organisation.
“While the program will target all Australians, specific content would be developed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as well as for culturally and linguistically diverse audiences,” the explanatory statement said.
“It would not be a ‘yes’ campaign – but would increase understanding of the issues relating to the referendum question.”
Federal parliament is set to resume debate on Monday on legislation to update the procedures for carrying out the referendum.
– AAP
