Aboriginal People will finally be recognised in the Tasmanian Constitution as Tasmania’s first people, following the historic passing of legislation through the State Parliament today.
This is a very important step on the journey of reconciliation, and is a key part of my Government’s commitment to re-set our relationship with Tasmanian Aboriginal people.
Tasmania is the only state that does not recognise Aboriginal people in its Constitution. Today we have changed that.
This amendment makes a clear and significant statement of fact, recognising the First Tasmanians in our State’s Constitution.
I thank all those who provided their views on this proposal, which has received the unanimous support of Tasmania’s parliamentarians.
The amendment to form part of the Preamble of the Tasmanian Constitution, reads:
“And whereas the Parliament, on behalf of all the people of Tasmania, acknowledges the Aboriginal people as Tasmania’s First People and the traditional and original owners of Tasmanian lands and waters; recognises the enduring spiritual, social, cultural and economic importance of traditional lands and waters to Tasmanian Aboriginal people; and recognises the unique and lasting contributions that Tasmanian Aboriginal people have made and continue to make to Tasmania.”