Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) has announced it supports the YES campaign for the upcoming referendum on a Voice to Parliament for First Nations Australians.

The announcement was made by President, Ben Houston, at a CGA Member’s Forum today.

“Commonwealth Games Australia has long been committed to reconciliation and supports the Voice to Parliament,” Houston said.”

“We will be advocating for the YES campaign.

“The Voice to Parliament presents all Australians with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to walk alongside First Nations people.

“We are committed to taking part in the process, educating ourselves on how this much-needed change to the Constitution of Australia intends to enhance the lives of First Nations Australians.

“This commitment to being involved continues our own reconciliation journey – a process that is ongoing through our Reconciliation Action Plan as we strive to lead the way in diversity and inclusion.

“CGA understands that there is a diversity of views across the Australian community, including those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background.

“We respect the rights of all Australians to have their say in the referendum, just as we respect the rights of our member sports to express their own views.

“CGA thanks our Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Group for partnering with us in forming this position – you are leaders in your communities, and we applaud your continued efforts to unify Australia.”

Houston’s confirmation of CGA’s position was followed at the Member’s Forum by a presentation by Dean Parkin, a contributor to the Uluru Statement from the Heart and Campaign Director at YES23.

Parkin provided the CGA family with an opportunity to learn more about the Voice, in turn supporting their own ability to make an informed decision.

The announcement was also welcomed by Kyle Vander-Kuyp, the Chair of CGA’s Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Group.

“I commend CGA for their efforts in reconciliation, and for choosing to support the YES campaign,” Vander-Kuyp said.

“It was not a decision taken lightly. The Board and management extensively engaged with the Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Group that I chair, and the First Nations voices among its membership.

“CGA continues to embrace diversity and inclusion and I’m proud to work with them as they strive to walk alongside First Nations people.”

CGA has made a financial contribution to YES23 in support of its advocacy.