How will the referendum on the Voice to Parliament work?

Australia has declared plans to hold a referendum on an Indigenous voice to parliament. Some Indigenous leaders say it will make a material difference in the lives of their people. So how will it work?

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the referendum at the Garma Festival (AAP) Source: AAP / AARON BUNCH/AAPIMAGE

Key Points

• Within the next three years, Australia is set to hold its first referendum in 23 years on an Indigenous voice in parliament.
• A referendum is a mandatory national vote on a particular issue to potentially change the constitution.
• It requires a double majority to pass, and at least four to six states to say yes.

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The Uluru Statement from the Heart called for constitutional recognition of a First Nations voice in Parliament, and has been backed by a referendum commitment from the Prime Minister.