Health sector joins the call for a Yes vote

26 September 2023

The Australasian Sleep Association has joined a group or more than 100 health and medical organisations to support the value of a Yes vote in the upcoming referendum.

“The letter signed by the ASA points out the importance of a Yes vote to improving the health and wellbeing of First Nations people into the future,” said ASA CEO, Marcia Balzer.

“A key point is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples need to be heard in decisions that affect them, particularly those decisions relating to health and wellbeing.”

The Minister for Health and Aged Care, The Hon. Mark Butler MP, unveiled the open letter this week in Adelaide. 

The letter concludes with a paragraph explaining why so many health and medical organisations are keen to speak up for a Yes vote: “We encourage all Australians to actively consider the possible health and wellbeing benefits that the Voice to Parliament would have for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Just as a good clinician listens to their patient, a Voice to Parliament is about listening to the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”