The Canberra Times

Amanda Vanstone: Voice to Parliament 'Yes' Advocates 'Driving People Away' with Aggression

Former Senator, Minister, and Ambassador Speaks Out

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Former Senator Amanda Vanstone has criticized the tactics of "yes" advocates in the upcoming referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, saying their aggression is driving people away from supporting the proposal.

Vanstone, a former Howard government minister and ambassador to Italy, said that while she supports the concept of an Indigenous Voice, she is concerned about the way the referendum is being campaigned for.

"I think there's a real danger that the 'yes' side is going to drive people away from voting in favor of the Voice," she said.

Vanstone said that the "yes" campaign has been too aggressive and confrontational, which has alienated many voters.

"People are being made to feel like they're racist if they don't vote 'yes', and that's not the way to win support," she said.

Vanstone said that she hopes the "yes" campaign will change its tactics and focus on making a positive case for the Voice.

"I believe in the Voice, but I don't think it's going to be successful if it's campaigned for in this way," she said.

The Canberra Times