Canberra Liberals MLAs will have a free vote on the issue of the Voice to Parliament referendum and will not be bound by a party position.

Leader Elizabeth Lee said a referendum provides all Australians with the opportunity to have their say on this matter and it should be no different for politicians.

“The Canberra Liberals acknowledge and respect the diverse range of views on this issue amongst Canberra’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” Ms Lee said.

“The purpose of a referendum is an opportunity for all Australians to have their say; to have their vote on this important issue and for many it is very personal. It is also important to note that this is not a vote that is before the ACT Legislative Assembly.

“The Canberra Liberals are absolutely committed to ensuring the best outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans.

“We have seen the continued devastating impacts of poor outcomes for our indigenous Canberrans under decades of Labor and the Greens which was highlighted last month when the Barr-Rattenbury government did not even consult with its own Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body before putting forward an executive motion in support of the Voice.

“It is clear there is a long way to go for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans as we have raised concern about for some years now and we will continue to consult with the communities,” Ms Lee concluded.