Baptist World Aid Australia accepts the invitation of our First Nations sisters and brothers in the Uluru Statement from the Heart to ‘walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future.’ 

We support the Statement’s calls for a First Nations Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Constitution; and a Makarrata Commission to ‘supervise a process of agreement-making between governments and First Nations and truth-telling about our history.’ 

We welcome the intention of the Commonwealth Government to hold a referendum on the Voice to Parliament and believe this represents an historic opportunity for our nation in the creation of a more just future and fullness of life for all peoples.   

As the aid and development agency of the Australian Baptist Ministries and, having engaged in a listening and learning journey across the last year, we echo their call to Baptists to engage with the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and the resources that are available at A Just Cause.

Across the world, Baptist World Aid works alongside Christian Partners standing with marginalised people as they address the challenges their communities’ face. We strive to listen to local knowledge, amplify the voices of people often excluded and support participation across all levels of society. Our programs begin with listening and result in locally led solutions.

So it is here in Australia—we challenge systems of injustice that trap people in poverty. And we advocate for women, men and children who are at risk of exclusion, exploitation, and discrimination. Amplifying the voices of Indigenous Australians aligns with our missional values, and we support the participation of previously marginalised people in decision making about their wellbeing and future.

At home and overseas, our vision remains the same—that all people would experience fullness of life as God intends.