CPSU members across the country are continuing to campaign for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament despite uncertainty that existed earlier in the campaign.
Some APS employees were initially unsure of their ability to engage in the Yes campaign, given the strict APS Code of Conduct.
The APSC was able to provide the advice that public servants were free to engage in the referendum debate in a personal capacity. Advice that was provided by the APSC went as far as stating that:
“APS employees have a lot to offer the public conversation as an informed and engaged cohort.”
Since then, CPSU members have been proactively supporting the Yes campaign by making phone calls, doorknocking, participating in street stalls, making badges and attending Yes campaign and Unions for Yes events. As recently as Sunday, CPSU members rallied across the country, joining the tens of thousands of people who marched in support of a Voice to Parliament.
Quotes attributable to Melissa Donnelly, CPSU National Secretary:
“The CPSU is incredibly proud to be supporting the YES campaign because as unionists we understand the importance of having a say on the matters that affect you, on having your voice heard, and ensuring that voice is protected by law.
“The Voice to Parliament is of course no different for our First Nations peoples.
“Early on in the campaign, questions arose regarding the rules surrounding the participation of APS employees’ in referendum campaigns.
“We were able to quickly iron out those kinks and assure our members that participating in the YES campaign in their own time and in an appropriate manner was not violating the APS Code of Conduct.
“Since then, there have been thousands of positive conversations with people right across the country, with many more to come.
“Our members are making phone calls, doorknocking and having meaningful conversations with friends and family members.
“The active engagement of CPSU members in this critical national conversation reflects the values of our union and is working towards building a better country.
18th September 2023
