‘Not fit for purpose’: government looks to amend ‘antiquated’ referendum laws ahead of voice vote

Linda Burney says government will propose changes to modernise the century-old act before the end of the year

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A leading constitutional expert says Australia's century-old laws around referendums are not fit for purpose", suggesting the government could look to amend rules around donations, funding disclosures and social media advertising before the voice to parliament vote.

Linda Burney, the minister for Indigenous Australians, said the government would propose changes to modernise" the Referendum Act before the end of the year, and promised a civics campaign and more information about the voice campaign in early 2023.

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