Two interviews - each representing the 'no' and 'yes' perspectives - are now available free for use.
On October 14 Australians will vote in a historic referendum to decide whether to change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Australia has a history of taking referendums seriously and people want to make an informed choice.
To this end, CMAA, together with Better Balanced Futures representing the combined Faith Communities of Australia, have created resources representing the 'yes' and 'no' perspectives.
The resources are in the form of interviews with Noel Pearson of the ‘yes’ case and Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price of the ‘no’ case. The intent of this project is not to take one side or another but to present information and provide an opportunity for each campaign to speak for themselves.
The interviews, conducted by Dwayne Jeffries include issues requested to be raised by leaders of the Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and Christian communities. Each community has been supplied with transcripts and recordings.
Audio of the interviews, plus full written transcripts and photos can be accessed for download here.
Christian Media and Arts Australia believes it is important that people make an informed decision. Our hope is that these resources will help that process, and that stations might find them a useful way to inform their own communities about the Voice Referendum.
Your Legal Responsibilities Guide As A Broadcaster
This guidance material aims to help radio stations navigate the complexities of covering the upcoming referendum on changing the Australian Constitution, scheduled for October 14, 2023. Thank you to the CBF and CBAA for valuable links and resources.
The guidelines focus on three main areas:
- Accurate reporting and addressing misinformation
- Compliance with broadcasting regulations specific to referendums.
- Cultural sensitivity, especially towards First Nations communities.
Christian Media has a unique role in fostering respectful dialogue around The Voice. Community Licensed radio stations in particular are required to adhere to the Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice, which mandate accuracy and non-discrimination.
Due to the emotional and potentially damaging nature of the referendum debate, especially for First Nations people who have faced historical racism and trauma, the emphasis on respectful and sensitive coverage is a paramount consideration.
Should you need further guidance in relation to coverage of the upcoming referendum, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email to ceo@mediaarts.org.au
Additional Resources:
- Guidelines for Codes of Practice and regulatory obligations.
- Cultural policies for respectful reporting – here is the CBF guide that is a helpful protocol.
- Regulatory requirements around sponsorship, blackout periods and broadcasting responsibilities.
- AICD guidance for stations and boards taking a stance on the referendum available here.
Thanks to the CBAA for resources and links.