The Australian Referendum of 1967

Topic

The Australian Referendum of 1967

Instructions

Australia has a history of having unsuccessful referendums. The 1967 referendum passed in excess of 90% of the population. Why do you think it went ahead with such overwhelming endorsement? Please provide evidence to support your response.

Answer preview

In May 27, 1967, over 90% of Australian voters voted for the passing of a referendum after campaigners had largely focused on informing Australians of the importance of respecting the status and rights of Aboriginal people in the country (McGregor, 2017). One of major reasons for the majority voting for the passing of the referendum was that it was the first referendum to be ran since the Aborigines had been allowed to vote, as enactment of Electoral Act in 1962 had given Aborigines the right to vote (Australians Together, 2013).

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