ReachOut endorses the Uluru Statement from the Heart and supports the establishment of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.
As a youth mental health service whose purpose is to help all young people in Australia feel better, we know that discrimination and disadvantage can have a significant impact on mental health, as well as social and emotional wellbeing.
ReachOut believes that establishing a Voice to Parliament is a powerful opportunity to place First Nations people at the heart of decisions that will shape their lives and futures.
Working in partnership with First Nations peoples is particularly important as we strive to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes.
The referendum campaign is, however, likely to be difficult for many First Nations young people. There are a range of views across all communities regarding the Voice. The referendum campaign and surrounding public debate will likely have lasting impacts on the social and emotional wellbeing of many First Nations young people.
We will work with First Nations young people to develop culturally-appropriate support that meets their needs during this challenging time.
Whatever your views are on the Voice, ReachOut asks people across Australia to be compassionate and engage in the debate thoughtfully. We encourage safe and respectful conversations, acknowledging that First Nations young people may choose not to participate in some instances.
ReachOut would like to thank our First Nations staff for their wisdom and generosity as we have undertaken internal consultations. We acknowledge that there is much to be done as we work together towards meaningful reconciliation and commit to listening to, learning from and supporting the community throughout this campaign and beyond.
Head here for more information on the Uluru Statement from the Heart and to find out how you can support it.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or need additional support, please contact your doctor or check out the following support services:
- ReachOut’s Yarn Up
- Yarn Safe
- 13 YARN (13 92 76)
- Beyond Blue (call 1300 22 4636 or chat online)
If this is an emergency, call 000.
