Laurel House supports and advocates for the principles of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, recognising the urgency of constitutional recognition, representation, and self-determination for First Nations Peoples in Australia. We acknowledge the devastating impact of colonisation, which has perpetuated historical and contemporary injustices and exacerbated issues such as sexual violence towards First Nations People, particularly their women and children. 

We recognise that the Voice to Parliament proposal, a key aspect of the Uluru Statement, aims to provide a constitutionally enshrined platform for First Nations Peoples’ Voices to be heard in decisions that directly affect their lives, including policies addressing sexual violence, child sexual abuse and related issues, which must be designed and led by First Nations people who understand the cultural nuances and historical contexts intricately woven into the fabric of these issues. 

Our unwavering commitment to the values enshrined in the Uluru Statement is deeply aligned with our core mission to support all victim-survivors of sexual violence. We are dedicated to fostering a respectful dialogue that considers the diverse perspectives on the Voice referendum and other matters affecting First Nations people. We actively encourage conversations led by First Nations voices that contribute to the creation of policies and programs that holistically address victim-survivor needs, and prevent sexual violence within the context of historical trauma and colonization, in a culturally sensitive way. 

Central to our purpose and values is the provision of a safe, inclusive, and confidential environment for victim-survivors and their loved ones. We are committed to forging meaningful partnerships with the Tasmania Aboriginal Community, organisations, stakeholders and victim-survivors to collaboratively drive lasting change. As we stand united with the aspirations of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, we emphasise the critical role of First Nations leadership in shaping a future that respects the voices, rights, and agency of First Nations peoples, especially those with lived experience of sexual violence.