In preparation for the federal election, Reconciliation Taree wrote to all ten candidates standing in the Lyne electorate. They asked them a series of questions about reconciliation and invited them to provide a brief statement of their position.
Of the ten candidates:
Four candidates answered all questions and are supportive of reconciliation and Indigenous justice.
Three candidates did not respond.
A further three candidates responded but declined to answer any of the questions.
Candidates’ responses to the yes/no questions are reflected in the image that follows. Responses to the open-ended question from the four candidates who answered this question are summarised below.
Tom Ferrier (Greens) stated that “The Greens strongly supported the Yes vote for the Referendum” and referred people to the full set of Greens policies, “including our policies to support truth-telling and treaty-making, protect cultural heritage, and prioritise First Nations leadership and empowerment”, on their website: https://greens.org.au/platform
Digby Wilson (Labor) noted that “The Indigenous population of Australia remains the most disadvantaged and disenfranchised group in our society. Healing and repair are essential, grounded in respect and understanding. A divisive ‘us versus them’ mindset only pulls us further apart—we must strive for better. Preserving the history and culture of the world’s oldest living civilisation is not just a duty; it’s a necessity. To disregard this land’s heritage is to lose sight of our shared identity.”
Jeremy Miller (Independent) began by affirming “the custodianship of the Biripi, Worimi, and Wonnarua nations and peoples of Lyne”, stating “I pay my respects to their Elders- past and present-and recognise their ongoing connection to land, waters, and sky.” He continued, “I have been, and will continue to be, a strong ally to First Nations people including standing up for Welcomes to Country, supporting culturally safe spaces for children to grow and learn—like those provided through First Steps-and backing job opportunities such as the Indigenous Ranger Program. First Nations communities have long offered thoughtful, practical solutions to the challenges they face. What’s needed now is for Governments to act on those solutions, listening to and led by First Nations voices.”
Keys Manley (Legalise Cannabis) wrote that “The Legalise Cannabis Party recognises that Indigenous Australians are disproportionately affected by cannabis-related charges, contributing to systemic injustices. We support decriminalisation and legalisation to reduce these harms and ensure fair treatment under the law. Legal reform must go hand in hand with social justice, including addressing over-policing and ensuring indigenous voices lead policy decisions that affect them.”
Voters in Lyne, where these candidates are standing, may wish to consider these responses (and the fact that other candidates were not willing to respond to the questions) as they prepare to vote.
Full disclosure: I am a member of Reconciliation Dungog and an active member of the Jeremy Miller for Lyne campaign.
An Informed Faith 