Stan Grant Added To Referendum Council, Will Guide The PM On Recognition

Fairfax reports a joint statement from both Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Labor leader Bill Shorten on Grant’s new role will say “Mr Grant’s extensive experience and commitment to constitutional recognition and Indigenous affairs will be invaluable in the role as a member of the Referendum Council.”

For what it’s worth, Shorten also just voiced his support for the bipartisan (!) council’s new member. 

Stan is an excellent appointment. We need to ensure we keep momentum building for constitutional recognition. https://t.co/n49qvviPfq

— Bill Shorten (@billshortenmp) April 16, 2016

He’s replaced Pat Dodson after Dodson was tapped to take over from Labor senator Joe Bullock last month, and Grant will join other leaders including Mick Gooda, Dr Galarrwuy Yunupingu, and Noel Pearson on the 16-person council. 

Of course, his new role comes after a series of very public comments on the issue; a powerful and widely-spread speech at the IQ2 Racism Debate was followed up by an eloquent dissection of the issue on Q&A. 

The Council is currently consulting with relevant groups nationwide to really nail this recognition deal, and they’re expected to hand in their findings in a few month’s time. 

Now, here’s a chance to put those words into action. Onya, Stan. 

Source: Sydney Morning Herald / ABC. 
Photo:  NITV / Facebook.