South Australia's First Nations Voters Set for Historic Dual Elections
An estimated 30,000 First Nations voters in South Australia are eligible to participate in two elections concurrently on Saturday: the state election and the second SA Voice to Parliament election. The SA Electoral Commissioner, Mick Sherry, noted the rarity of such a parallel electoral event in the state's history.
SA is unique as the only state or territory with a representative body called a "Voice," fulfilling one of the Uluru Statement from the Heart's requests.
This body is tasked with advising the state government and parliament on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Election Details
Sixty-four candidates are contesting 46 seats across six regional districts for the SA Voice. After election, one male and one female member from each district will form the state Voice. Voting for both elections is available at 700 polling places, with early voting options also provided.
Community Engagement and Challenges
Former First Nations Voice commissioner Dale Agius expressed excitement within Aboriginal communities regarding the upcoming election, noting increased community participation and engagement with information about candidates.
The inaugural Voice election in 2024 saw a turnout of less than 10% of eligible voters, drawing criticism from political parties. Subsequent challenges included member resignations, structural concerns, and debate over government funding levels.
Agius anticipates a higher voter turnout this year due to the convenience of the combined elections.
He also stated that Voice members have engaged with government on program design, delivery, and policy influence.
Political Stance on the Voice
The future of the SA Voice beyond the state election is uncertain, as both the Liberal Party and One Nation have campaigned on promises to abolish the representative body if they form government.
The Liberal Party has proposed reallocating $750,000 in state government funding for the Voice to other programs, including the community constable service and the Shooting Stars program.
Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn stated no observed benefit from the Voice's advice, emphasizing a focus on achieving practical outcomes for Indigenous Australians.
Premier Peter Malinauskas defended the Voice, stating it has provided "thoughtful" and "considerate" advice that has been useful and potentially cost-saving for taxpayers.
The Electoral Commission is scheduled to count the Voice election results on March 30.