Historic Indigenous voice referendum bill passes parliament ahead of public vote

Opposition attorney general Michaelia Cash made last-minute speech slamming proposed Indigenous consultation body

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A bill to alter the constitution and enable the Indigenous voice has passed the federal parliament ahead of Australia's first referendum in 24 years to be held later in 2023.

The Senate passed the bill on Monday 52 votes to 19, confirming the wording of the constitutional change to be put to the Australian people. The draft legislation passed the lower house last month.

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