BHP and Rio Demand Permanent Indigenous Voice in Australia’s Parliament, According to Reuters

By Colin Packham

SYDNEY – Australia’s largest mining companies have expressed support for the establishment of an indigenous advisory body in parliament, challenging Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s criticisms of the initiative as unfounded.

For decades, Australia has faced difficulties in reconciling with the descendants of its first inhabitants, who arrived on the continent approximately 50,000 years before British colonization.

The opposition Labor Party has committed to holding a referendum on the advisory body if it wins the upcoming general election, which is expected by May.

BHP Group and Rio Tinto jointly released a statement advocating for a constitutionally recognized body to provide guidance to parliament on indigenous issues. BHP’s CEO, Andrew Mackenzie, emphasized that "a first nations voice to parliament is a meaningful step toward reconciliation." He noted that it would empower indigenous Australians and ensure they have a voice in the legislation, policies, and programs that affect their lives.

The Australian constitution does not currently mention indigenous people, who have fought for recognition of historical injustices since European settlement in the late 18th century. A formal apology from the government to indigenous communities was only delivered in 2008.

Last year, Morrison’s conservative government dismissed the proposal for an advisory body made up of elected indigenous Australians, arguing that it would effectively create a third chamber in parliament. Responding to these concerns, Mackenzie referenced a 2017 report by indigenous leaders that advocated for the advisory body, stating, "These fears don’t stand up to scrutiny." He reiterated that the final report concluded there was no reason to oppose granting indigenous Australians the constitutionally-enshrined voice they deserve.

Australia’s indigenous population, numbering around 700,000, consistently ranks near the bottom in various economic and social measures among the nation’s 25 million citizens. Morrison has further stirred resentment among indigenous communities by refusing to consider changing the date of Australia Day, which is often referred to as "Invasion Day" by those who view it as marking the arrival of British settlers.

During a visit to Brisbane, Morrison reiterated his disagreement with the mining companies’ stance, stating, "I want to see indigenous families in jobs. I want to see indigenous kids safe and I want to see them in school because that’s what gives them a bright future."