Voice Decision: The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Stands in Solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities for Justice and Rights.

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) acknowledges the hurt and distress that the process and the outcome of the referendum have had upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.  

The AASW stands in solidarity with all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and remains committed to working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social workers to achieve social justice and uphold the human rights of Indigenous peoples.

Despite our great disappointment in the outcome, our commitment to A Voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has not diminished and will not be forgotten.  To this end, the AASW will walk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the next steps towards Treaty and Truth-telling.

The CEO, the Board, and the staff of the AASW remain steadfastly committed to creating an inclusive society that values the cultures and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and recognises their contribution to Australian society.  We also take a stand against the racism that has been spoken and enacted during the lead-up to the referendum and that sadly will continue over the coming weeks and months.

We also reach out to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social workers and offer our support for the work that we know you will be facing over the coming days, weeks and months in assisting your communities to heal, regather and continue in the fight for justice and rights. 

Together we stand for a better future and justice future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia