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14 October 2025

Two years on: Voice Referendum Anniversary - Reconciliation SA Calls for Renewed Commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Justice

Reconciliation SA today marks the second anniversary of the Voice to Parliament referendum, a moment that invited the na)on to listen deeply to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and take a historic step toward truth, justice, and self-determination for the entire country.

While the referendum outcome in October 2023 did not deliver constitutional recognition, it revealed both the strength and the fault lines in our national conversation. Over six million Australians voted ‘Yes’, a powerful testament to the growing movement for Reconciliation. Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities led with courage, vision, and generosity, offering a path forward grounded in unity and respect.

“This anniversary is not a time to retreat, it is a time to recommit” said Jason Downs, CEO at Reconciliation SA. “The referendum may not have passed, but the call for justice, truth-telling, and meaningful reform has never been louder.”

We are witnessing a surge in Reconciliation initiatives, education programs, and an increased awareness across South Australia. From grassroots storytelling to increases in Reconciliation Action Plans and support to the organisation, the spirit of reconciliation continues to grow.

Reconciliation SA reaffirms its commitment to:

• Supporting truth-telling and historical justice across communities and institutions
• Advocating for policy reform that centres Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s voices
• Strengthening partnerships that uphold cultural integrity and systemic change
• Amplifying education and awareness through schools, workplaces, and civic spaces

Co-Chair Jeremy Johncock said, “It has been two years since the referendum, and I have often reflected on its outcome. At the time, I apologised to my children for not having done enough. Yet I remain confident that, in time, we will get there. Reconciliation is a journey, and like all journeys it is rarely without challenges or setbacks. These moments, however difficult, are part of the path towards lasting change.”

As we reflect on the referendum’s legacy, we call on all South Australians, governments, organisations, and individuals to stand firm in their support for change. Now more than ever, reconciliation must be active, visible, and enduring.

“To honour the courage of those who led the campaign for the Voice, we must continue the work they began,” said Downs. “Reconciliation is not a moment it is a movement.”

For media enquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
Reconciliation SA
admin@reconciliationsa.org.au