Amendment of s25, s51(xxvi) and possible insertion of new sections: The major points ofdiscussion at the Uluru include the fact if there should be some form of recognition provided tothe aboriginal and the Torres Strait Islanders as the first people of Australia; in a preamble to theConstitution or otherwise.2 The other issues included the removal of the modification of section51xxxvi and section 25 of the Constitution. The removal of the power granted to the States toexclude the particular race from taking part in the voting and the introduction of constitutionalprotection against any discrimination on the basis of race. These are the key elements of themodel that was recommended in 2011 by the expert panel on constitutional recognition. Inprinciple, the panel enjoyed bipartisan political support.3Another proposal that was also a part of these discussions was put forward by Noel Pearson, theCape York leader, who suggested an official mechanism that would provide a voice to theaboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the parliament and concerning the legislation thathave an impact on the indigenous people.4 The aboriginal leaders believed that it is verysignificant that they have a say in the policies that have an impact on their people and theirrights. Hence, having an indigenous voice in the parliament will provide a chance to an electedgroup of the aboriginal people to advise the parliament regarding the issues affecting theindigenous people. Such group will have significant authority and staying power if such a thingis mentioned in the Constitution. Similarly, it will also help in achieving better results for theindigenous people and at the same time help in maintaining a fairer relationship between thegovernment and the aboriginal people.2Dodson, Patrick, 1999 Vincent Lingiari Memorial Lecture, ‘Until the Chains Are Broken’ (2000) 5(2) Australian Indigenous Law Reporter 733Council of Australian Governments, National Partnership Agreement on Remote Service Delivery (2009)4Davis, Megan, ‘Responses to Henry Reynolds’ (2006) 6 Macquarie Law Journal 13

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