Bruce Bennett, writing at the blog today about the Voice situation in New Zealand, says that a treaty is behind the Voice agenda. It may not happen immediately, but once one is on this slippery slope, it will be inevitable. Peta Credlin makes the same point, that a treaty would then be on the way if the Voice passes. As detailed in a piece that has been doing the rounds, attributed to a politician leading the No campaign, which I have not been able to verify for my satisfaction, there will be reparations as well, as white Australians will be made to pay for, well, building this country. “Australia got a whole country for nothing, they haven’t even begun to pay for it.” “…[A] Treaty could include a proper say in decision-making, the establishment of a truth commission, reparations, a financial settlement (such as seeking a percentage of GDP), the resolution of land, water and resources issues, recognition of authority and customary law…” For a piece of harsh land that was civilised by sweat and tears.
