Every referendum over the past 120 years has said something about who we are as a maturing nation. Whatever our individual views on this outcome, we will continue to learn.  

While the result was unsuccessful, the conversation does not end here. The opportunity to listen and learn from First Nations peoples continues to be one of our greatest privileges and opportunities as a nation.  

At South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), we know that listening and walking alongside First Nations people leads to a stronger culture and better wellbeing, health, social, education and economic outcomes.  

We will continue to listen with humility and respect to the voices of First Nations peoples as we work together with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and all primary health providers to help close the gap in health, education and social outcomes. We honour the resilience of First Nations peoples over the years since colonisation and are we are committed to continuing the transformative journey that First Nations people invited us on when they issued the Uluru Statement from the Heart. 

The conversations around the referendum have, in many cases, been distressing for First Nations peoples and their allies in our communities. We encourage anyone affected by these conversations – and the ones that will doubtless continue in coming weeks – to seek any support needed.

13YARN is for mob, by mob, and is available 24/7 by calling 13 92 76. Beyond Blue also provides 24/7 counselling by calling 1300 22 4636 or accessing the online counselling webchat service. 

Please be kind to yourself, offer an outstretched hand and a listening ear to those around you.