John Anderson on The Voice To Parliament | Op-Ed

[@MaraudersWorld]

THANK YOU John for speaking out. I am all for equal treatment of the Australian people ... regardless of a person's race.

[@mwatson7086]

After colonisers declared Terra Nullis, genociding and stealing the land of aboriginal people then getting filthy rich from the stolen land, you can finally announce that everyone is treated equally.

[@emcats84]

It's not about race. That's just a wedge used to hurl the label of racist at anyone that opposes the voice. This is all about power, and first nations people are being used as pawns to gain it.

[@MaraudersWorld]

@@emcats84 Agreed

[@emcats84]

@@benm468 Depends on the term. Would you prefer I say "First tribes"?

[@DianaRamirez-ms6sf]

Yes they did had Nations (not in the Western sense used since ~18th century ) but they did and still have governance systems as in any other organised societies. Read a little. Get out of your head, please.

[@platypups]

Last year I was studying an arts degree at RMIT, majoring in literature. Each subject in my major was subverted to be entirely about Indigenous affairs and I have still not had a single assignment that was not centred around the very same thing. I went into it feeling very strongly as I have all my life that I care about reconciliation and that I care about the wellbeing of Indigenous Australians and the prosperity of the remote communities you mentioned. But after an entire year being ceaselessly attacked by teachers and students alike in every single class for my British heritage, being called a racist in the comments of almost all my assignments for saying things that were not even slightly racist, all I can say is that I am now hostile at best. In fact, I actively want to leave the country now because I feel like there's no home here for me any more. I'm doing everything I can to save up enough money to leave because I feel I'm unwelcome, even though I was born here. They've actively destroyed support by the overt politicisation of people's lives and identities. If that's happened to me, and I was a fervent supporter of Indigenous communities, it's really concerning to think about how the wider community might be starting to feel. Entrenching societies in identity politics, as the Voice is aiming to do, only promotes separation and seeds distrust and hostility. Reconciliation will never be achieved under the Voice.

[@indefatigable6176]

I had a similar experience over a decade ago at UWA.

[@PennySmart]

Very sad. These people are obsessed, not so much with "First Nations" rights, but with the destruction of what you rightly call the Western heritage and also Judeo-Christian values.

[@Boz196]

I'm at RMIT currently studying accounting. I presume it to be a much less liberal doctrine than arts and literature but I am still bombarded with neo-Marxist ideas basically every semester. For example there are many times when writing reports where I have to discuss 'diversity, equity and inclusion'. I started off telling the professors what I presume they wanted to hear but more recently I have started sharing my own opinions. Whether they negatively affect my grades or not time will tell but I think it is important to stand up for truth no matter what.

[@johnfisher7143]

You lost me at “arts degree”. For pity’s sake, what did you really expect?

[@nihilmiror6312]

You are not alone and the wheel is slowly turning . Stay and fight back! 👍💪🙏🇦🇺🦘

[@herbertvonsauerkrautunterh2513]

It's obviously not about democracy and equality . It's about power, control and money

[@cameronsmith8986]

Yeah, that's true. It's a Marxist cultural revolution. It's all about power

[@chrisburnett4742]

235 years of the current system sees entrenched aboriginal disadvantage and policy failure, so the current system demonstrably has nothing to do with equality. Our indigenous people could not be more disadvantaged. Yes the CURRENT system is about power, control and money - the power of non- indigenous people to determine what is best for aboriginal people; the control of the colonists over indigenous people having a say on issues that impact them; the money that could be saved if we listened to the Voice of indigenous people on the many Australian issues in which they have expertise.

[@hardykilimann4406]

Our indigenous folk have never been more empowered but there are those within “the industry” that wish to keep playing the victim card, due to the lack of accountability in indigenous funding, meaning they are getting the money yet the people they say they represent still flounder. The Voice will change nothing until accountability, outcomes vs expense are measured. It’s big NO from me. This is not my only issue with government spending but the topic is very prominent which is why I’m flying back from overseas to vote when the dates are announced.

[@herbertvonsauerkrautunterh2513]

They don't have much expertise. I'll look after myself and do what I need to do for me and my family. They can get stuffed

[@JDG-hq8gy]

@@hardykilimann4406So you’re voting against it not because it’ll make things worse but because it’s not doing enough to make things better?

[@The_Stoic_PhilosopherAU]

It’s great to hear John again. He’s the ‘The Voice’ of sense, logic and truth!

[@simonrankin9177]

I believe John is now with Family first, the Bible based political party .....

[@simonrankin9177]

@@nikkideanmusic i believe he is a christian, which to my knowledge is a great thing...

[@simonrankin9177]

@@nikkideanmusic thats your thoughts on it ,im a christian and we put our faith in God and Jesus , im guessing your not faith based ,thats your right to live the way you see fit ...

[@simonrankin9177]

@@nikkideanmusic Thanks for your reply. ...

[@simonrankin9177]

@@nikkideanmusic it dosent bother me , im happy to believe, ,,my best mate is a atheist we coexist very well ,, im sure in time he will be looking for something more...

[@PaulBKal]

Dead right John. Thank you for caring, and for taking the time to record these very thoughtful comments.

[@simonrankin9177]

I think you may hear more in time....

[@robsin2810]

John, you are the voice of reason. This referendum should be scrapped, as it will do nothing for our brothers and sisters, who are caught in the never ending spiral of bureaucratic and government ineptness. I will vote No.🙏👍🇦🇺

[@wyattfamily8997]

The Australian Human Rights Commission: "Racism is the process by which systems and policies, actions and attitudes create inequitable opportunities and outcomes for people, based on race". This sounds like a very clear DEFINITION of the "voice" to me.

[@Trevor7727]

If white people or any new immigrant people followed the same steps of the aboriginal people, the results would be the same……..some will prosper and others will not……You cant blame the working class, when we all started at the same place….

[@Gumbatron01]

There is a tell of their ideology even in that definition. Equality of outcome (more often called Equity) is possibly the most evil idea you could have. Because, people are not equal, so the only way you can obtain equality of outcome is by punishing the competent.

[@riskyanalysis5479]

Yeah the Australian Human Right's commission has failed to address the racism that has been targeted towards the 'whyte' people. Regardless of origin, or race, as they see no difference between Irish, British, French, German, Scandinavian, Meditarian or Jewish person, they are all 'white'. Because it has become a racist institution, just look at how they treated Bill Leak before he unfortunately passed away. Not to mention the numerous claims of racism directed to 'the perceived oppressors' they call white brought to them. because they have altered the definition. Racism to them is 'Prejudice PLUS Power', NOT what it has always been, 'Hatred and Discrimination based on Race.' Because they want to Discriminate based on race and clearly vent their Hatred for other races... Affirmative action is part of that, SO is the separation of ABStudy from AuStudy and other centrelink payments. All this makes it easier for the government to segragate them by their data, from the General Australian public. Meaning they can cultivate a dependency via 'Interventions' into their communities, that allows them to track, direct and or control/direct their communities more. While allowing the Government the appearance (or Public Face) of trying to address past wrongs, by giving them social and cultural privileges, oh sorry benefits or reparations. Racism was practically gone when I grew up, except for some cringe and disturbed older people in general ... Now they are teaching kids to be racist in schools and universities. It shocked me when I went back to Uni and saw it.

[@changing_thoughts80]

@@Trevor7727 but that's just it, they didn't start from the same point. White settlers came and stole aboriginal lands, enslaved their people, stole their children, genocided their culture and customs, imprisoned them, denied them access to social services and blamed them when they didn't "pull themselves up by their bootstraps." It's like cutting of your leg and then saying it's your faulty you're not keeping up in a running race.

[@kitcat4512]

Sounds like the SDGs.

[@integritymatters1180]

John, I became emotional when I saw yourself and Jordan Peterson talk together. It's such a relief to see two such beautiful, elegant, intelligent men trying to understand and maybe even solve the deepest of problems. We really need you right now. Thank you for your service x❤

[@barbeeska]

Oh wow I missed that. Thanks!

[@petahagan1782]

John you always fill me with hope and pride for Australia. I love your KZbin talks and this talk on the voice is logical and calm. I admire you so much and see no moral giants like you and John Howard in our modern governments. Poor Australia..

[@ianbuttery8693]

Unfortunately, politics has become a popularity contest rather than a demonstrated competency choice.

[@user-fed-yum]

🐩💩💩💩💨🚽

[@anitacollingwood4224]

I wish we still had coherent, reasonable, classy politicians like you, John! I’m so embarrassed by what goes on in our chambers and the lack of wholesome debate.

[@patrussell8917]

Gratifying to hear the voice of reason explaining why we need to be one people not a divided society

[@sonjakozman1699]

So rewriting the constitution to give race-based outcomes.... that is unity to you? So backwards.

[@daniellebcooper7160]

The constitution doesent need to be tampered with to improve the lives of the indigenous...just agencies that are competently run.

[@wyattfamily8997]

And a careful accounting of where the $34 BILLION that is supposedly spent on improving conditions for aboriginal people, NOT just the elite who have their snouts in the trough of taxpayer funds.

[@LordEriolTolkien]

And it would be a turn up for the books if the indigenous could take responsibility for their poor choices and behaviour, for once, without blaming others.

[@marylacapp7262]

Exactly 🎯

[@patrussell8917]

Sadly indigenous people demand to manage these organisations while doing them incompetently and unwisely

[@kubabooba548]

@@LordEriolTolkien That's going to be a challenge when the indigenous are being force fed propaganda about how they are second class citizens, everything is the white man's fault, and don't forget everybodys favourite...colonialism.

[@kaylenehousego8929]

Thank you John . Blessings from Sydney .

[@luck3yp0rk93]

John Anderson. The voice of reason In australia.

[@JR-wu1fg]

Yes, but unfortunately no one listens to reason, its all emotion now. John needs to get on the phone to his old mates in Canberra and prosecute the case.

[@santouchesantouche2873]

John Anderson mentions child abuse in remote communities and doesn't mention that child abuse is several times worse in white communities. hahaha idiot

[@jf7243]

Thankyou John for your thoughtful and genuine contribution to this debate.

[@ellyseymour3463]

A man to be respected for what he has done for Australia & his words of wisdom.

[@andrewdegozaru74]

Well spoken John. The reality is that most of us lack a voice to Parliament as our local members, more often than not, are beholden to party politics, which in turn answers to plutocrats and well funded interest groups. The way the voice has been run to date is symptomatic of a broader malaise that also presents in gender politics, the absence of domestic debate about acquiescence to WHO 'instruments', and the efforts of domestic bureaucrats to align with supranational agencies' efforts to implement programmable mediums of exchange. The voices uttering the little peoples' wishes are seldom heard, let alone listened to.

[@DD-xw6uw]

All the voice would create is more bureaucracy. The real way to solve problems is with strong communities and people losing the victim mentality. I see so many indigenous people who blame their problems on others, rather than trying to fix their problems themselves,

[@Jopacob]

Yes but. This seems to steer away from the issue at hand. The thing is we live in a country that has the best form of Governance (Open Democracy) among all other choices. It is far from perfect but nothing is. At least in this country you have the freedom and ability (with hard work sure) to push back, start you own lobby group or Political Party, petition Ministers, etc. One good way is to go to Political Public meetings and ask the questions.

[@drwinklepecker9298]

Around 30 years ago (long before modern P.C wokeness) an aboriginal elder woman (one of the most wonderful and wise human beings I've ever encountered) told me that her people and her tribe never laid claim to anything including the land because they were part of it and not separate from it. She said that the animals were their brothers and sisters and the rivers and the trees were their family. She said each person at birth was assigned a totem animal/creature from birth (hers was the goanna) that was like a kindred spirit (she explained it better than I can) and like the animals, their tribe kept moving as the seasons changed and the food moved with the conditions (no single area could provide enough to sustain the tribe). Nothing she said resembled the (modern) Uluru statement (unlikely she'd be a signatory to it). I'm all for not leaving anyone behind/disadvantaged socially or economically but we must all be equal under the law, and leave merit, ability and effort to sort out the rest.

[@jenniferharrison8915]

As far as I know, they have no claim on our support or on the land as the first inhabitants! We refugees and convicts created Australia, they were migrants here too and were all separate tribes with no common language and few customs (particularly in Tasmania), in fact fought against each other similarly to New Guinean tribes! They are known in law as "custodians", not "owners", and certainly Indonesians, Indians, Africans, Dutch, Portugese, French, Spanish were here before England sent a small colony of starving, chained multicultural slaves! The historic truth is nowhere near all these loud modern claims, protests and entitlement concepts! 😠

[@cpowerbpower3339]

"We must all be equal under the law and leave merit, ability and effort to sort out the rest" 10/10 statement. Love it 👌

[@DD-xw6uw]

@@cpowerbpower3339 the voice wouldn’t allow that. The voice says “us indigenous have our own thing, everyone else has their own, and we can overrule you”.

[@wyattfamily8997]

@@jenniferharrison8915 As of July 2022 Aboriginal people own 49.3% of Australias land mass. When the next claim is setteldd that will rise to 62.7% of Australias land mass owned by Aboriginal people. From July2023 in Weatern Australia no owner of land bigger than 1,000 sq. metres can disturb the land to a depth grreater than 50mm (2 inches), without the permission of Aboriginal Heritage, at a cost of $160 every time. Maybe non Aboriginals are the ones that need a "voice" in Federal Parlaiment, as they don't seem to listen to the majority of the people of Australia very well.

[@jenniferharrison8915]

@@wyattfamily8997 That is absolutely frightening, we 90% needed to know this situation before this escalated so far! THEY NEVER owned Terra Australis Incognito in the first place! I encourage people to move here as a safe and open place for young families to make a life and future, and two of my niece's are buying property! We need land for new power alternatives and exploration, we need to continue to be a safe haven for refugees! I'm devastated, that's economically unviable! Where do they suppose their ongoing financial support is from, what percentage of recession responsibility will they be accepting? What tax do they pay on that? 😠 Convict slaves built Australia give their descendants a VOICE! 🤔

[@lizycole8999]

Prayers and best wishes to Australia from the USA ❤ May common sense prevail.

[@geoffhalpin5976]

Are you a Trump supporter?

[@geoffhalpin5976]

@sandponics Well, you offer prayers and so I wondered whether you are an Evangelical Trump supporter.

[@geoffhalpin5976]

@sandponics yes. Wrong guy. ATB. 😁

[@bernardkroeger4045]

@@geoffhalpin5976 Perhaps if more people prayed earnestly for their country and for wisdom we would not be so gullible.

[@geoffhalpin5976]

@@bernardkroeger4045 gullible about what?

[@rileyhosking3599]

Also, it's not like we haven't tried these committees before! Enshrining it in the constitution won't fix the issues with how they've been run previously. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) - ATSIC was disbanded in 2004 by the Howard Government amid concerns about its effectiveness, transparency, and accountability. The government argued that ATSIC had become too politicised and that its governance structure was not working. The decision was controversial and faced criticism from Indigenous leaders and others who believed that ATSIC played an important role in representing the interests of Indigenous Australians. National Indigenous Council (NIC) - The NIC was abolished in 2008 by the incoming Rudd Government, which argued that the body had become too closely aligned with the Howard Government and had lost its independence and credibility. The government also believed that the NIC was not representative of Indigenous communities and that there were better ways to engage with Indigenous Australians. Indigenous Advisory Council (IAC) - The IAC was disbanded in 2015 by the Turnbull Government, which argued that the body had not achieved its objectives and that there were better ways to engage with Indigenous communities. The decision was controversial and faced criticism from some Indigenous leaders and others who believed that the IAC had played an important role in advising the government on Indigenous issues. Just some examples, not all.

[@VaughanMcCue]

Both sides of the government saw failed systems. Thanks for that. I am sure the left-handed people of carefully chosen ethnicity who wear bifocals are under-represented. Is there a commission or voice to p'lm't that supports them?

[@wallypoffle7796]

Thankyou so much John for your passionate, impartial, rational discussion of this much misunderstood highly charged issue.

[@Design_no]

In many cases Indigenous Australians now have more advantage than anyone else. That's one reason why a no vote is required.

[@JR-wu1fg]

They actually have more rights than non

[@AnthonyTolhurst-dw1nc]

There it is.

[@mwatson7086]

Statistically Aboriginal people live an average of 8 years less, half as likely to have tertiary qualification, 10 times more likely to be imprisoned, half the pay and half the average home ownership of non-indiginous Australians. So advantaged.

[@thecoolestkidinkalkallo9621]

⁠@@mwatson7086 also aboriginals are more likely to get: Benefits ( tax payer paid ) Tertiary education for free, Housing Medical Transportation ( tax payer paid cars) Can go on and on dumb dumb

[@zel3888]

@@mwatson7086 Due to their own choices, and despite endless advantages they are handed by Australian taxpayers

[@richardjidee5761]

I agree with with John,most people haven’t even seen the problems in Aboriginal communities but speak as if they were experts,the problems with alcoholism is riff,children wandering the streets at night to afraid to go to bed because of the fear of being sexually abused and to tired to go to school the next day.This becomes entrenched in there society as a way of life and it’s all fueled by alcoholism. I don’t think giving 3% of the population the power over 97% will be the answer.

[@pastorofmuppets8834]

Thank you John for supporting racists like Richard Jidee

[@davidwarren4569]

They only want a say over their own outcomes not yours

[@pastorofmuppets8834]

@@davidwarren4569 but people who like John Anderson think that white people need to make decisions for them

[@richardjidee5761]

@@davidwarren4569 They already have a say over their outcomes,they have the same rights and opportunities as the rest of Australia,some are doing really well and have become well educated and hold down well paid jobs and contribute to society.

[@richardjidee5761]

@@nikkideanmusic How can I be informed when the present government will not inform what these changes will be and how it will affect the other 97% of the population,where do you get your information from to support your statement?

[@nordic2112]

Your last comment rang home true for me as someone who has chosen to work with aboriginal people, especially the homeless. The activist class don't appear to want any solutions; just continuing reasons to promote their own platforms and see their own name in lights.

[@DD-xw6uw]

99% of the activist groups come from inner city suburbs and have never experienced the things they talk about. Politics now a days does not have real representatives of the people.

[@wyattfamily8997]

And maybe get part of the annual $34 BILLION allocated by Government for Aboriginal needs.

[@graemesydney38]

I think The Voice is TOTALLY without merit, TOTALLY. In fact I think it will be damaging to both Australia as a whole and the Aboriginal themselves. Wrong in principle and ineffective in practice.

[@G.V.A.K]

A compelling and persuasive argument. And a heartfelt one.

[@user-fed-yum]

🤣🤣🤣

[@ballaservices9275]

Wonderful Op-Ed - lucid, calm and full of wisdom. If only there were people still in our parliament with even a fraction of your common sense, Mr. Anderson, Australia would be a far, far better place. Thank you, Sir.

[@Centrifugal-]

Amen

[@DavidHRyall]

Glad to hear you speaking out against this, thank you

[@jonh9561]

I find Albanese's responses to questions with strawman arguments and excessive politician speak, only fosters a growing distrust in him. His original announcement that there would be a referendum on the proposal to introduce 'The Voice' was coupled to the statement that voting for it was a "modest request" and thereafter that the 'details' would be dealt with 'after' the vote. As John pointed out, there seems to be a much broader agenda here i.e. first the voice, then truth telling and finally treaty. I personally think that the ultimate goal and long-game is sovereignty by stealth. None of this has been clearly articulated by the Prime Minister. With something of critical importance as our country's constitution at the centre of the referendum, truth and honesty is everything.

[@jonh9561]

@@murraywight5721 There are no distinctions in these actions from one country to another or one tribe to another and have been instigated by man since prehistoric times. As for "genocide" I'd say that the generations of taxpayer paid healthcare workers, particularly those work in the regions, would find that claim difficult to swallow.

[@aeroearth]

The question is, would you buy a used car from Comarde anthony albanese?

[@PrincipledUncertainty]

The likes of John and others such as Peter Hitchens stepping up and using their wisdom and the fearlessness that reaching a certain age gives a person, has been one of the few things that gives me hope in these deeply odd times. What causes me grave concern is what will happen once that generation passes, as it will be irreplaceable . They are doing God's work and maybe, just maybe, they have sparked enough fires of truth that will burn brightly after they're gone. I've a feeling though that John will be with us for a long time to come.

[@PrincipledUncertainty]

@@nikkideanmusic Thank you for reminding me how arrogant I once was as an Atheist. I'm no dupe.

[@spottedquolloz]

the dreamtime is a godly experience much the same as country I for one will vote no. Just look at the way country is treated by all peoples with no identity to the land and there fellow peoples.

[@nikkideanmusic]

@@spottedquolloz What does this have to do with an indigenous voice to parliament??

[@spottedquolloz]

@@nikkideanmusic why does parliment have to be controling as this to is a invention of man and run by fanatics. To claim anything else is childish wishful thinking. Why is it always the ill-informed fanatics who muddy the waters of progress , what have politicians ever produced?

[@chastheplayer8367]

This needs to be aired on TV

[@liviamaclean6324]

Thankyou John!! You are the Voice of Reason, Truth and Justice in these rather perilous times!! It is absolutely wonderful to hear your opinions again. God Bless You and Your Family!!❤

[@elephantintheroom7102]

Seems like ATSIC 2.0 but with much greater powers. There was a huge black hole of funds disappearing into ATSIC with no accountability. The Voice is just a money grab and power play for only a proportion of Australian Aboriginals. This will not change anything for disadvantaged Aboriginals in remote communities, who will continue to be disenfranchised and live in poverty. I wonder if the Voice proponents would feel differently if their own children were exposed to what so many women and children endure in those communities, exacerbated by the Urban activists who propose a hands off policy which puts so many Aboriginals at risk.

[@tomk2720]

Exactly. I want to see initiated ppl from remote communities in the public domain. Not paid off talking heads being led around by the nose - I appreciate Lidia Thorpes rejection of being told what to do as well.

[@trevorkearney3088]

Mr. Anderson directs our attention to claims that the New Zealand Parliamentary process is frustrated by litigation brought to the Waitangi Tribunal. He states: "Take the Waitangi Tribunal in New Zealand, which has direct veto power over certain legislation. This discriminatory innovation to the New Zealand government system has expanded over time and has contributed to divisive racial politics. We’ve got to be wiser here." Mr. Anderson does not divulge his sources for this idea. There are several possibilities including Senator Jacinta Price & prominent Voice opponent Daniel Wild, the deputy executive director of the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA). For instance, Mr. Wild typically raised the matter during an interview broadcast on Perth ABC Radio entitled: "Advisory only? That's what they thought before the New Zealand High Court got involved." Along with Mr Anderson, those aforementioned proponents of the "No Case" claim the Waitangi Tribunal is an example of how the proposed Constitutional Voice would ultimately acquire (through High Court rulings) an overarching power of veto upon the Australian Federal Parliamentary process. Rebuttals to this claim have appeared in several places and include: RMIT ABC Fact Check Posted Fri 14 Apr 2023 "Does New Zealand's parliament really play second fiddle to a 'Maori Voice'?" and AAP (Australian Associated Press) FACTCHECK "Voice comparisons with NZ tribunal are just wrong." The views expressed by Mr. Wild, Mr. Anderson, Senator Price and others are discredited by various informed NZ legal academics and practitioners. Mr. Anderson would do well to inform himself of the alternative view. It seems disingenuous on his part that he doesn't bother to address or acknowledge that alternative. There is no evidence that the Waitangi Tribunal has acquired any powers of veto beyond the scope of the Act of its establishment. The Waitangi Tribunal was originally established as a commission of inquiry in 1975. In part it was seen as a necessary entity having regard to the fact that the Treaty of Waitangi differed in its English language version from the Maori language version. Its sole given "power" is to make recommendations to the government. Nothing has changed regarding that legislated power. Where genuine cases of actual or envisaged outcomes contrary to the spirit and intent of the Treaty of Waitangi have been heard by the Tribunal, it is presumably morally incumbent on the NZ Government to act on any recommendations made by the Tribunal to address any potentially adverse outcomes incompatible with the Treaty. However, there is no legal requirement to act on those recommendations and examples apparently exist where they have been ignored. Concerning the makeup of the Tribunal, the Crown alone appoints tribunal members, many of whom are non-Maori. According to the Tribunal website: "The role of the Tribunal is set out in section 5 of the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 and includes: - Inquiring into and making recommendations on well-founded claims - Examining and reporting on proposed legislation, if it is referred to the Tribunal by the House of Representatives or a Minister of the Crown - Making recommendations or determinations about certain Crown forest land, railways land, state-owned enterprise land, and land transferred to educational institutions."

[@lucygeorge4469]

Exactly, distraction from the real needs we need to attend to. Well said John. Thank you for your clear presentation.

[@stevecam724]

One people, one nation, one voice. Vote NO to the voice.

[@sabejreid2072]

Come Home John we need you 🇦🇺

[@JR-wu1fg]

We have universal suffrage in Australia, 1 vote for 1 person to be represented in parliament. No special interest group should have special access to parliament over and above other citizens. We live in one of the oldest democracies and we are contemplating undermining the primacy of the voters and their parliament. It's by no means perfect, but this will imperil what we have. The architects of this are fully aware that this undermines out parliament. If these people have come up with a better way of representing citizens then lets hear it, and we can make it available for all. A Yes vote , will entrench the current a b o r i g i n a l aristocracy and essentially mean that your birthright (race) is more important than being an equal citizen. Principles we have taken generations to rid ourselves of. Don't mention the activist lawyers, give an inch they will take a mile. Meanwhile the less than 3% of the population these people pretend to help will be no better because of this.

[@DD-xw6uw]

A voice will lead to more people finding the smallest excuse to identify as Aboriginal, even if they are not. A seperate indigenous body confers status to indigenous people that everyone else does not have

[@Nylandersaraus1]

@@DD-xw6uw just because your a scammer doesn’t mean everyone is

[@unbearableunbearable2740]

@@Nylandersaraus1 2021 census the number of people claiming to be Aboriginal was up 25% from the 2016 census. Scammers right there.

[@JR-wu1fg]

@@murraywight5721 Totally agree, practically you are correct. However it doesn't mean we should also undermine parliament with the voice. There are are whole raft of things that could be done to return more power to the citizens. The. Voice just represents a pathway for the powerful to gain more power whilst using one group to obtain it. A whole can of worms that should be opened.

[@terrydavies8336]

Thank you Mr Anderson - are we not - One Blood - they are Australian original people - wonderful made and know this land like no other - we should - care for each other - I’m 80 now and still miss my best friend -

[@tony-bi1hj]

It's a pity we've lost people like John Anderson from politics. He was an honest person and still is.

[@bencarter6702]

Well articulated John. As an Aussie citizen I think the referendum question should have had the recognition decoupled from the advisory to the executive. There should be two questions. One, would you like to see a statement of recognition of Indigenous people in the constitution? Yes. Two, would you like to see an Indigenous people advisory group to the executive government called The Voice? Hm.

[@DD-xw6uw]

If the first question was “do you recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders as the first people of Australia” everyone would vote yes. That would prove that none of us hate them. Furthermore, if a second question said “do you want to give them the voice” (something along those lines) and everyone voted no, it would prove what the problem is

[@ChrisVandenheuvel]

Thank you John, thank you.

[@skillsrev]

Well said John. There is so much more behind this voice and once you open Pandora's box, the genie will never go back in

[@eaudedogue]

Let's get some ears in parliament. Far too many voices already.

[@stevenmitchell7830]

Thank you John. Well said. Australia is built on the fact that all Australians are equal and we must not change that in our constitution.

[@stevenmitchell7830]

@@nikkideanmusic Yes, you would see us all equal, but some more equal than others.

[@stevenmitchell7830]

@@nikkideanmusic No, the voice is trying to enforce inequality in Australia 🇦🇺

[@stevenmitchell7830]

@@nikkideanmusic I understand that the constitution was amended in 1902 to universally give women the vote. This was a move towards e equality. The voice is not about equality. It is about racially based equity. Anything that differentiates Australians based on race or gender must be opposed. So say no to the voice.

[@andrewdavis8137]

The more you describe people by groups, the more they tend to hate each other. We are all AUSTRALIANS. Nothing else should matter.

[@petermclauchlan8793]

Wise ❤ WORDS ‼️ Thanks John ❤

[@karlpenna1118]

A sensible approach to a real issue with changing the constitution. We really have a PM who, advised by aboriginal elites are directing the yes team to something we will regret. This will divide Australians for a long time

[@1401196616091996]

Fantastic summary…. Well done John…..

[@MGTOW222]

Good on you John for your thoughts concerning The Voice.

[@baobo67]

Thankyou John. Very helpfull.

[@michaelclayton1827]

Thank you John! You have always been a very level headed person when it comes to Australia! Thank you!

[@johnjones6601]

John makes an excellent point, if only by implication, and that is; if every State and Territory has a Minister and a ministry for Aboriginal affairs, and Federally also, then you'd have to ask yourself, are they doing their job? Billions upon billions have been spent on Aboriginal welfare to so little effect, and yet somehow this Voice will change all that? Dream on. 9:34

[@chuckbirdnz]

Great talk John. Looking forward to seeing you tonight in Auckland NZ.

[@robynmanning3693]

Sir, you are an eminent Australian! Your integrity, ability to critically think, present the facts from both sides and draw justified (& I feel, ethical) conclusions is inspiring. What a great Leader your are.! These are my fellow Australians and an important and complex issue. I feel let down by the 'Yes' vote as when questioned at even the basic level the answer is .because. or .don't worry. or if your vote no you are a .... (or perhaps I just tune in to the wrong stations and missed the detail). This is our constitution, the Executive etc. This needs significant exploration. Thank you for explaining things so clearly and concisely. It has helped me a great deal. I will reflect on your viewpoints. An Aussi nurse

[@susannecalman2250]

As always brilliantly said.

[@Ozmulki]

Well said John. People need to understand these issues without blindly voting yes.

[@Peter_Thorpe]

All these words Reconciliation, Truth Seeking, Ukuru statement from the heart are just different words for getting your Land,Your Property ,Your Rights and zero accountability for committing crimes...

[@DavidPeaceOneLove]

Exactly. All that glitters ain't Gold.

[@stony4646]

Yep, agree 💯

[@AnthonyTolhurst-dw1nc]

I’m calling this bull out. Enough. I’m white origin, equally indigenous to this country as the darker skinned, who also hailed from across the waters.

[@DD-xw6uw]

@@AnthonyTolhurst-dw1nc at what point will they stop treating non-Aboriginal Australians as if they are not equally indigenous. Sure, I wasn’t the first in this land, but I have lived here all my life, I have contributed to it, my family has fought for it and I love it just as much as anyone can.

[@wyattfamily8997]

@@DD-xw6uw My ancestors came in cahins with a whip at their backs and we're called "invaders", such idiocy is beyond belief.

[@jaypirrelli970]

Jon Anderson, thank you for pointing out all of the very valid issues that the media ignore. I ask anyone who sensibely wants to debate this issue, to tell us one thing to date that indigenous Australians have received over non indigenous Australians, that has bridged the gap? Their own flag, land right, previladges above other Australians, billions of tax payers to the multiple indigenous committees, bodies, and representatives, acknowledgement in every major event, Government Department, Parliament, schools, and corporate website, Sorry Day, non of this has bridged the gap. The voice in my view will create further division between Australians and future Governments.

[@williamhyman9213]

John, I can see both sides of the issue for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to be able to live better lives. I can see your integrity in wanting that outcome. I can also see Thomas Mayo’s integrity in wanting the same outcome. I had no idea who he was until recently when I met him and listened to the history of Aboriginal people’s attempts to be listened to and seek beneficial legislation, through the Parliamentary process, and it would appear, failing time and again. For example, ATSIC, apparently had its problems but at the same time also had its successes. It was binned. I don’t know if this was juste or not but there seems to be a pattern of failed prospective legislation that continues to plague efforts to improve the livelihoods of this one group of fellow Australians who happen to be the descendants of the first inhabitants of this continent. I am beginning to feel, and embarrassingly not before time, the trauma, their generational trauma from acts such as the removal of children from their families. Similarly, I would not want The Voice to stifle and quagmire any legislative or administrative process designed ultimately to improve livelihoods, nor be elevated above any other Australian group of citizens, in spite of the fact that the land from which they gained their livelihood and of which they were preserving for future generations, was never ceded post the arrival of the colonists. Again, trying to look at both sides of the same coin, the coin of humanity’s attempts to live peacefully and harmoniously, I see at least some, if not significant truths in the Frontier Wars and in one of the few successful attempts at genocide in human history. And, I also look at the state of Western democracy seemingly since 2014, having slipped into this populist era of polarisation, lack of accurate representation of the electorate on the back of 200 short years in our Western history that it has taken industrialisation to have such a negative impact on our planet. I can’t help thinking that maybe the ego of the West, in spite of our many accomplishments, might just be on its last legs and might benefit from a dose of humility and from actually, for once, engaging in that lost art of listening to the voice and meaning of the other person, with respect, and for our mutual benefit.

[@85yugs]

Thanks for keeping the comments section open John. KZbin doesn't like it and most Australian news outlets seem to 'switch off' (aka censor) the comments section. Sad state of affairs these days. Disgraceful to think this is what our diggers fought for. And the modern day sheepdogs of society (ie those with any common sense) are growing more and more weary each day...

[@SPUD3378]

Thankyou John for providing the clearest most sensible thoughts on the subject by anyone to this date.

[@scottwarner1017]

I'll certainly be voting. No, this is a bad idea. Albonize's got bigger issues to worry about. He needs to get on with doing the real work & save millions of dollars.

[@brianeibisch6025]

Very well said John. Maybe you should go back into politics. Cheers

[@wyattfamily8997]

I wish he would, a "voice" of sanity in a world gone mad.

[@tipofthespear7182]

He tried in the last Federal election but the Liberal Party refused to endorse him. Says a lot about their priorities.

[@gary53]

If you listen to no one else...Listen to John Anderson he speaks the truth...

[@sonnyannitamichaelides6678]

Thank you so much John.

[@212Nippa]

In Australia there are three levels of government which consists of the Federal Government, each State and territory governments and each State and Territory is broken up into local government areas. All these levels of governments are made up of representatives elected by the people. The remit for ALL of theses representatives to serve the needs of All the constituents (A person who is represented politically by a designated government official or officeholder) of their electorates at their Federal, States and Territory and local Government areas of responsibility. Overall all Australians are therefore represented by a total of 6, 734 elected representative who have a voice in all parliaments across the nation. They all have a sworn obligation to represent ALL OF THE CONSTITUENTS they represent regardless of their race, race, religion political affiliation, economic circumstances or any other affiliation they may have an interest in.

[@fhugheveleigh2]

A balanced and thought-through address, the content of which I completely agree with. It seems to be another level of bureaucracy which will add to the already overburdened framework of indigenous representations. All of us are equal citizens under the Crown and giving special treatment to one group opens up all sorts of problems. Thank you for pointing out some of the needed facts.

[@tommym4593]

That’s all Australia needs more bureaucracy,we are choking with bureaucracy in Australia

[@vicpower9394]

He always presents well prepared and debates on all issues of political significance to this country. JA is the best PM we have never had.

[@tamaveirene]

Respect for John Anderson...we should listen to the Wisdom of this Elder...and NOT to the Claptrap of the Ignoble and Greedy! 🇦🇺🌹💯

[@lieshtmeiser5542]

I know one thing for sure: voters shouldnt be listening to numpties like Lidia Thorpe.

[@lynbull2982]

Jacinta Price said this recently in The Australian newspaper : “As an Australian with Warlpiri heritage, I would love to experience a day where my racial identity wasn’t brought into focus. I would love not to be forced to feel singled out through superficial acknowledgments or alleged respect for nothing more than my racial heritage. This is tokenism writ large and paternalism of the highest order.”

[@41srn]

​@nikkideanmusic that is nonsense. Besides that, the vast majority of "indigenous" people are half white

[@stevenjohnson168]

In The Australian. Nowadays the most debunked Murdoch paper in the country. Shame on you. You might as well say you (80 years ago) that the Volkischer Beobachter is your source of news.

[@stevenjohnson168]

@@41srn What? How does that affect a care for Indigenous Australians??

[@iwack]

​@@nikkideanmusicAnything you'd like to comment on, in particular? Or just swipe her statement away by stating she's a minority?

[@lesblack413]

Indigenous Australians already have a "VOICE" to parliament, as do all Australians. It is called your local federal member. If you do not like how your local member is representing you, then vote them out and run for parliament yourself. This is how a democracy works for "ALL" Australians, not just for one particular race.

[@eggsandwichification]

Brilliant. Thank you. We need this message spread nationwide

[@Kristen-qr1yk]

Brilliantly set out and explained. Thanks John

[@glennpuckeridge6244]

You make some very good points in this piece John. There are valid reasons to question the voice. I am disappointed though that your recommendation is we keep doing what we are doing now. Successive governments have used our existing model. Millions of dollars wasted and no closing of the gap. I would have hoped an intelligent person like yourself would have suggested a third way?

[@aeroearth]

Correct. The Australian bureaucrats have treated the Aboriginal peoples as some giant social experiment worthy of Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin and an equally abysmal failure. An absoute disgrace. The answer is quite simple, but will NEVER occur to those bureaucrats.

[@S3NTRY]

The irony behind The Voice is the implicit admission that Labor has never listened.

[@rof8200]

Thank you John 🙏

[@dasglasperlenspiel10]

Gosh, I like John Anderson. Of course, I don't agree with him aboutt every detail of every issue, but I have watched many.many of his interviews with interesting people, and my respect for him continues to grow. If we only had some politicians like him here in the United States.

[@dusandakic828]

Well said John 👍🏻 (hello from Coonabarabran!)

[@sharonmoore167]

It won't be their voice, it will be the voice of politicians saying what THEY themselves think is best for our indigenous brothers and sisters.

[@nickmoore9475]

I wish we had more people like you in parliament John.

[@christopherdziuba4880]

0:56 - 700,000 out of 800,000 indigenous were killed. They weren't assimilated into our politics. This devastated their "Equal Voice" today. Lets say 0.7 million lead to there being 1.4 million more of them now. Out of 20.5 million Voting Australians that would make a huge impact. 1:20 - Vast majority of indigenous people opposed think the voice isn't enough. (Note: this is my anecdotal experience) 1:49 - "Divisive" means "something that causes great and sometimes unfriendly disagreement within a group of people" such as this video. 1:55 - How is a nation wide mandatory vote for indigenous welfare a distraction from indigenous welfare? 2:25 - Lie. They do not have Vito power. It's a commission setup in 1975 to investigate if the NZ gov has violated T&C's of the Treaty Waitangi (Signed 1840). Voice to Parliament is different both in intent and function. 3:00 - Using "Misleading" here is hypocrisy by definition. 3:04 - Uluru statement pg 1 of 1 "These dimensions of our crisis tell plainly the structural nature of our problem. This is the torment of our powerlessness. We seek constitutional reforms to empower our people and take a rightful place in our own country. When we have power over our destiny our children will flourish." John Anderson reworded these lines which is divisive. 3:38 - Even if this was true, then so be it. Canada has made 70 Treaties with their First nations people since 1701. We have made 0. Time to catch up. 5:35 - "Treaty" = "binding agreement between two or more parties" not inherently extreme. To assume most Australians will be against it is arrogant. Now I have to go to shops before they close. But my final word is, when will you realize - you're the bad guy?

[@christopherdziuba4880]

@@laborshill8503 did I hurt your feelings?

[@adriankenyon1339]

No one says it better than John Anderson

[@grahammorgan3858]

1000% agree. This presentation should be compulsory viewing and be broadcast on every TV network in prime time. Perhaps Linda Burney or some other advocate could make a similarly logical and suspect presentation??😮

[@barbeeska]

I was born in Australia and am regularly subject to being 'welcomed' to the land of my birth. I was under the impression that the United Nations states that everyone is entitled to a nationality. I am not entitled to return to the lands of my ancestors and yet I have, apparently, no claim to the country I was born in and have to have my presence repeatedly and explicitly allowed. How come the right to a nationality doesn't apply to me?

[@unforseenconsequense]

Aboriginal people need to stop feeling sorry for themselves and start going out and making their own lives better, get educated, get a job, make friends and have a family. Life is hard though, so don't be discouraged and blame someone else if you don't succeed right away.

[@robkeith1776]

Here, here John. Well said. One has to wonder how the 'Voice' will act any differently from the current plethora of Aboriginal Australian agencies - eg NIAA The really frightening aspect, is that if successful once it is in the Constitution it is virtually impossible to remove it. Peter Dutton is absolutely correct in opposing this preposterous proposal.

[@Gruntld]

So if the voice fails then will the Terra Nullis argument be put to the internationa court? if so what could the outcomes of this be?

[@marynayna6327]

Thank you John I looked to your clear thinking, to help me make up my mind how I will vote on the voice referendum

[@zacbarnett7783]

Thankyou, John Anderson.

[@MrEnniscorthy]

The LNP still have Australia as Terra Nullius. No apology. No Heart. No truth

[@desobrien3827]

Great folks, we vote on something that has not been actually "DEFINED"!!!

[@grantbuttenshaw]

That's about the best summary of the only outcome I can see possible.

[@danielchircop7823]

If the Aboriginal elders haven’t been consulted collectively about the voice, how much of a voice do people think they will have if it was voted in? The voice will most likely come from the corporations that have funded the ‘YES’ vote

[@AVMamfortas]

Listen, learn, research and think carefully. We Ozfolk will be asked to vote on the issue. Mr Anderson has some most pertinent words on the matter. He is without doubt a True and Committed Australian; a gentleman, intellectually and experientially endowed.

[@really-tv6dn]

Bravo John. Thank you. Magnificently articulated.

[@phillipsmith6756]

Thank you Sir. Yes, there is an expectation of Voice - Treaty - Truth and there are plenty of unknowns. Change always involves the unknown. I am left with some questions from your commentary. How can we know that the majority of Australians will reject (some form of) treaty? We can't know that. What we can know, is that if we do nothing, nothing happens. The (almost always) white ministers for Aboriginal/Indigenous Affairs have not closed the gap in many decades. That structure for "voice to parliaments" is not working. There will be struggles along this path. Perfect harmony will not follow the referendum - division already exists and it won't simply go away - but in the words of Colin Powell, "We must not make perfect the enemy of good."

[@MP-ye6tv]

Wish you were our Prime Minister 🙏

[@aussieroadtrips9393]

Thank you John Anderson, for telling the truth