Foreign Minister Penny Wong has affirmed that the Indigenous Voice to Parliament is “gone” following its decisive rejection in the 2023 referendum, emphasizing respect for the Australian people’s decision. Speaking publicly, Wong indicated that while the advisory body proposal was defeated by about 60% of voters, future reconsideration remains possible, likening it to the prolonged journey toward marriage equality in Australia. She made clear, however, that the government will not pursue another referendum in the near term and will instead focus on practical measures to advance Indigenous health, education, housing, and closing the gap on disadvantage.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed Wong’s stance, noting that no prime minister has succeeded in winning a referendum this century and underscoring the importance of delivering tangible improvements for Indigenous Australians. Opposition leader Peter Dutton criticized the government’s position, accusing Labor of not abandoning plans to legislate an Indigenous advisory body despite the referendum’s outcome.
On the international front, Wong refrained from commenting on potential future communications between Albanese and former US President Donald Trump amid ongoing trade disputes, reaffirming Australia’s commitment to free trade and diplomatic engagement.
As a veteran senator and leader of the government in the Senate, Penny Wong also confirmed her intention to continue her parliamentary career beyond the upcoming election, maintaining her significant influence in Australian politics.